Tura, July 16: Citizens of Garo Hills marked the 107th anniversary of the Garo Labour Corps’ return from World War I, fondly remembering the brave Garo men who left their homes to support the Allied forces in France.
A special program was held in Tura to honor their contributions and homecoming on July 16, 1918.
Meghalaya Minister Marcuise Marak led the public in paying floral tributes by placing a wreath at a temporary cenotaph in Babupara, Tura, where the returnees were originally welcomed by British officials over a century ago. The original cenotaph has been dismantled to make way for a new monument, part of a larger project to develop the site in memory of those who served. The main program took place at the Tura District Auditorium.
Minister Marcuise Marak spoke of the dedication and sacrifices of the Garo youth who left their families to serve in the war zone, providing essential supplies to Allied soldiers engaged in trench warfare against German forces in France. Despite harsh winter conditions, the Garo Labour Corps worked tirelessly to deliver critical support.
Tragically, many succumbed to the extreme cold and were laid to rest in cemeteries in France.
The survivors returned to Tura and were warmly welcomed by British officials at the Babupara hilltop, where the original cenotaph was erected in their honor. The names of those who did not return are etched on the monument, a lasting tribute to their sacrifice.
