Pte. Henry Balmer
British Army 2nd Btn. Kings Own Scottish Borderers
from:Seaham, County Durham
(d.5th Jul 1944)
Harry Balmer enlisted on 6th of August 1942 and was allocated directly to the KOSB for basic and infantry training. He arrived in India in July 1943, and after specific jungle warfare training his unit was deployed to the Arakan region of northwest Burma. He saw action at Abel and the Admin Box, receiving field promotions to Lance Corporal then Acting Corporal.
His 7th (Indian) Division was then flown in to reinforce the garrison at Imphal, Manipur, India. Forcing the Japanese to retreat, his unit fought northwards towards Kohima, famously being led into the attack on Kanglatongbi Ridge by two of the battalion pipers.
Following the success of this attack, the KOSB trekked east across country, jungle, paddy fields, and steep mountain ridges, all in heavy monsoon. They arrived below the retreating Japanese stronghold of Uhkrul. Following two days of repelled attacks in which Harry was wounded, the Borderers entered the village virtually unchallenged on the third day, the Japanese having withdrawn overnight. Harry was promoted to 'War Substantive' Corporal during this action.
On 5th July 1944, Harry died from his wounds and was buried in the village. His remains were transferred to Imphal Military Cemetery in December 1944, where, under army regulations, he resumed his rank of Private, the War Substantive element coming into play.
RIP Uncle Harry.
