BATTLE // November 21, 1965
Battle of Bau
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Source · Wikipedia
Significance
The Battle of Bau was one of the small-scale cross-border engagements that characterized the Indonesian–Malaysian confrontation in Sarawak, Borneo. A company-sized Indonesian force of 100–120 men was attacked and virtually destroyed by a Gurkha company, representing a significant tactical success for British forces in the border region. The engagement's lasting consequence lay less in its operational effect than in the individual recognition it produced: Lance Corporal Rambahadur Limbu of the British Army Gurkhas was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions during the battle, making it one of the most noted single engagements of the confrontation from a regimental and Commonwealth military history standpoint.
Tactics
A 16-man Gurkha advance squad initiated the attack on the company-sized Indonesian position. The remainder of the Gurkha company, totaling 104 men, then pushed forward in support. The Indonesian force was effectively destroyed in the engagement. Facing pressure from a second Indonesian company in the area, the Gurkha company subsequently withdrew from the position.
Forces & casualties
Troop strength
- Индонезия100–120medium
Commanders (1)
United Kingdom
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