Family pride at long overdue award

On Wednesday 22nd January 2009 a small but very significant ceremony was held at the Minsitry of Defence in London. Mohammed Sidique Bawa together with his brother went to meet Defence Minister Kevan Jones who is also responsible for war veterans. The meeting was arranged by Fabian Hamilton MP in order for the brothers to receive a badge awarded to their father, Mr Goolam Hussain who served in the British Navy during both world wars. Mr Sidique explained how he hoped that his father's example would inspire a whole new generation of UK Asians to join the armed forces. Goolam Hussain was awarded the Atlantic Star for service in the critical battle of the Atlantic. Mr Hussain survived one sinking from the attack of a German bomber and also encouraged fellow Kashmiris to enlist in the British Armed Services.

The ceremony was attended also by Fabian Hamilton and local Councillors Mohammad Iqbal and Mohammed Rafiq who is a distant relative of Mr Goolam Hussain.