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POKHARA, June 21: One of the most renowned British officers in the history of the Brigade of Gurkhas, Lieutenant Colonel J P Cross OBE, has turned 100, and the extraordinary milestone was marked with a heartfelt celebration at the British Gurkhas Nepal camp in Pokhara.
Lieutenant Colonel John Philip Cross OBE, popularly known as JP Cross, served alongside the Gurkhas in the British Army for nearly 40 years, earning legendary respect for his experience, leadership, and devotion to his units. After retiring from a distinguished military career that included numerous deployments, he has spent the past 49 years living in Nepal, becoming an official Nepali citizen in his later years. Now fondly calling himself a “Nepali born in Britain,” the retired officer fondly recalls arriving in Nepal with the British Army 80 years ago, at the age of 21.
Lieutenant Colonel Malla detained for interrogation
He has authored 19 books on his military service and experiences, consistently holding the Gurkhas in high esteem in his writings and reflections. His deep passion for Nepal, its people, and the Gurkhas has cemented his legacy within the country and the Gurkha community, while his knowledge and insights have earned recognition in the wider military world.
Addressing the event—which was attended by Julia Fenn, wife of the British Ambassador to Nepal, along with Gurkha veterans, serving officers, and staff—Colonel Dan Rex MVO, Commander of British Gurkhas Nepal, encouraged all to reflect on how the centenary celebration resonated beyond the Pokhara camp, reaching the entire Brigade of Gurkhas and the British Army. “This is also a moment being closely followed and celebrated by many Nepalis who are proud of their connection with JP Saheb,” he said.
In addition to his distinguished career as an officer and author, Lt Col (Retd) J P Cross OBE is recognised as an expert in jungle warfare and counter-insurgency, with experience also as a police officer, defence attaché, and Gurkha recruitment officer. He is a skilled linguist, fluent in Nepali and its various dialects. His service spanned regions including Burma, Indo-China, Malaya, Borneo, Pakistan, India, Hong Kong, and Nepal.
Now settled in Pokhara—the heartland of Gurkha recruitment—he lives with his godson and family. Back when he was 93, with his trademark wit, he quipped: “Call me old when I am 100.” Perhaps now, it’s time to draw more humour from JP Saheb.
