In the darkest hours of World War 2, thousands of men and women from Myanmar (Burma) risked their lives fighting a brutal war for Britain against the Japanese. In bitterly fought battles at Imphal, Kohima and Rangoon, their sacrifice helped turn the tide of the war in Asia. But today in Britain, it’s a story that’s been almost completely forgotten.
To mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, two old friends are determined to change that. Levison Wood and Alex Bescoby - stars of Channel 4’s ‘Walking the Nile’ and and ‘The Last Overland’ - are on an urgent mission to honour the last surviving veterans from Burma - before it’s too late
Both Levison and Alex have a deep connection to this story: Levison’s grandfather fought to liberate Burma from the Japanese, and Alex spent almost a decade living and working in Myanmar as a historian and filmmaker.
Their journey takes them to India, following in the footsteps of Levison’s grandfather, and unfolding the incredible story of the little-known WW2 Burma campaign, including the huge contributions of Commonwealth and indigenous soldiers.
But as they travel, they have another mission to complete. Back in London, before setting off, they receive news of a WW2 veteran living in the Chin hills in Myanmar. He fought alongside the British and is now engulfed by the tragic civil war in Myanmar. Now, aged 100, he still treasures his link to king and country.
Levison and Alex are now determined to find and thank this brave man - to give him the Burma Star medal he never received, as well as an incredible and unexpected personal message from His Majesty King Charles III. Via an intermediary they arrange to meet in northeastern India, away from the danger of the civil war.
Can they pass on a grateful nation’s thanks, before it’s too late?
