The Ministry of Defense on Saturday announced that the Commune of Monotone in Italy, in association with Italian military historians, has unveiled the ‘VC Yashwant Ghadge Sundial Memorial’ in the Montaone area of Perugia to honor Indian soldiers who fought with the Italian campaign in World War II.
The monument is also dedicated to soldier Yashwant Ghadge, who died during the battle in the Upper Tiber Valley. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest award of the British Armed Forces.
According to a Defense Ministry press release, India’s Ambassador to Italy and Indian Defense Attache Dr. Nina Malhotra represented India during the ceremony along with a large number of Indian citizens.
During World War II over 50,000 Indian Army soldiers participated in the Italian campaign and six Indian soldiers were awarded the Victoria Cross. Thousands of Indian soldiers died and are commemorated in 40 Commonwealth war graves spread across Italy.
An Indian Army plaque is also placed on the memorial commemorating the sacrifices of all ranks of the Indian Army who fought in the Italian campaign.
The monument is built in the form of a living sundial with the motto ‘Omines sub iodem sol’ (We all live under the same sun).
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