Sergeant Mohammad Hussain

By Ejaz Hussain

My grandfather was unquestionably the greatest expression of a unique time in history that was characterised by immense sacrifice and dutiful service. Exuding an old-world charm, Sergeant Mohammad Hussain was universally loving, generous in giving his time, and always willing to guide and help anyone in need. 

Sgt Hussain’s story of heroism began in pre-partition India, now modern-day Pakistan. Hailing from a military family that included participants in the First World War, Sgt Hussain felt duty-bound to avenge his older brother’s capture, Corporal Fazal Hussain, who was a Japanese prisoner from the start of World War Two. To that end, as an exuberant 16-year-old, my grandfather had to defy the wishes of his parents and ran away from home to enlist in the British Indian Army in 1941. 

Eighteen months of intense training followed in Lucknow and Ferozpur, where Sgt Hussain specialised as a gunner and wireless communications officer. Prior to the end of his training, Sgt Hussain had been promoted to a training Instructor at which point he was called to join the European fight against the Axis Powers and was enlisted in the 6th Duke of Connaught's Own (DCO) Lancers, Reconnaissance Regiment, in the 8th British Indian Army.

Landing in Italy in September 1943, Sgt Hussain’s regiment formed part of the legendary river crossing division that was amongst those tasked with the critical mission of breaking the back of the deeply entrenched German defensive positions. Fierce battles followed with multiple engagements including along the Gustav Line, the Battle at Sangro River, the decisive but brutal Battle of Monte Cassino, the liberation of Rome and Florence as well as exchanges along the Gothic Line in Northern Italy.

Sgt Hussain’s heroics continued until the very end of the war, which saw him capturing German prisoners and saving a burning wooden bridge – enabling allied forces to continue their advance. Loyalty, even under intense pressure, remained my grandfather’s abiding quality and this was evident when he refused multiple bribes from German prisoners to release them. 

Soon after the end of the war, India faced partition, creating Pakistan, where Sgt Hussain transitioned to the 12th Cavalry in the Pakistani Army. After a terrible accident in 1958 in which he broke his neck, he was honourably discharged from the military and moved to Britain in 1960.

For more than six decades he served the community in voluntary social work and supported veteran families and widows. He promoted Remembrance through events at schools and places of worship to highlight the sacrifice of Commonwealth troops, in the hope of a better tomorrow for everyone, and served as Chairman of The Indian Army Ex-Serviceman’s Association (Slough) until his demise.

Sgt Hussain passed away on 20th June 2025 – weeks after the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

My grandfather may have left the mortal realm, but his presence is still felt profoundly through the stories, the poems, the life lessons and the guidance provided to countless people around the world. 

One member of the RAF described grandad as being such an “..effervescent, enthusiastic and interesting man – qualities which only took moments to convey”. As someone dedicated to helping others, grandad lives on through the widows, orphans and many lives that he helped uplift. His legacy is one of universal service to humanity. And above all else, a desire to see people of all backgrounds united as one.

Grandad’s exemplary character remains the inspiration to so many and something to emulate – that would be the most impactful and fitting way to honour Sergeant Hussain’s legacy.