Still Serving: Purna's Story
Purna Gurung grew up in the small village of Ramailo in Nepal, surrounded by a proud military tradition. His father served in the Indian Army, his brother in the 2nd Gurkha Rifles, and several uncles and in‑laws had also worn the uniform. Becoming a Gurkha felt like a calling and Purna was selected to join the 1st Battalion, Royal Gurkha Rifles, serving as a full member of the British Army.
After nine months of training in Catterick, he deployed to Brunei, where he served in the Gurkha unit responsible for protecting the Sultan and his family. He later returned to the UK as his battalion prepared for Afghanistan under Op Herrick 12.
In March 2010, everything changed. While serving in Helmand Province, Purna was caught in a mortar round attack.
Shrapnel tore into the left side of his body — his arm, his leg, and his eyes.
He underwent eye surgery and has been partially sighted ever since, relying on thick glasses to see clearly.
On the same day, several of his colleagues were also injured, and two soldiers from his intake were killed.
“It’s very sad,” he says quietly.
The blast marked the end of the life he had known.
Purna spent years in rehabilitation, learning to adapt to his injuries and facing the painful reality that he would have to leave the Army.
“Civilian life was completely different,” he says. “The Army was all I knew.”
In 2012, Purna found his new beginning at Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (BBMC), RBVE’s national social enterprise. He lived in the veterans’ village for two years and worked alongside former comrades, including others who had been injured in the same operation.
“It felt easy to fit in,” he says. “We understood each other.”
Despite the lasting impact of his injuries, including his reduced vision, Purna’s work ethic and leadership were quickly recognised. He is now a Team Leader in the Signs Department, overseeing production and supporting fellow veterans.
“I enjoy working here because it feels like being part of a family again,” he says. “That’s important in our culture.”
Today, Purna is proud of the life he has rebuilt. He honours the memory of the Gurkhas who never came home and carries their legacy with quiet dignity.
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