Sepoy Namdeo Jadhav VC: An Indian Soldier’s Bravery in Italy

Jadhav, at the age of 23, served with the 1st Battalion of the 5th Mahratta Light Infantry in the Indian Army. In April 1945, during the Spring offensive in Italy, his unit faced a critical moment while attacking the east bank of the Senio River.

On 9 April, a small party came under heavy fire, with casualties mounting rapidly. Here’s where Jadhav’s extraordinary bravery unfolded (as per the VC citation published in the London Gazette on 15 June 1945). Despite intense enemy fire, Jadhav displayed remarkable selflessness. He rescued two wounded men, one at a time, carrying them across the deep river, up a steep bank, and through a minefield, all while under heavy mortar and machine gun fire. Determined to avenge his fallen comrades, he then silenced three enemy machine-gun posts, one with his weapon and two with grenades, even after sustaining a wound himself. With exceptional courage, he stood in the open amidst enemy fire, shouting the Mahratta war cry and waving the remaining troops across the river.

His actions, as the VC citation states, were “outstanding gallantry and personal bravery” that not only secured the riverbanks but also played a crucial role in breaking German resistance.

Jadhav’s bravery was recognised, and he received the Victoria Cross from King George VI and was later promoted to Havildar (sergeant).

Sepoy Jadhav’s legacy lives on. In April 2017, a memorial was unveiled on the eastern bank of the Senio River in Italy. Another memorial bust dedicated to Jhadav was unveiled in 2019 at Aundh Military station, Indian. He is also commemorated on the Memorial Gates at Constitution Hill, London.