Book Review on GYALO .... Written by Major Lingi Jamtsho

The front page of the book "GYALO"

GYALO – a tale of a soldier is an epic journey of young officer, from freshly graduated boy to a young officer commissioned in Royal Bhutan Army. The book journey us through the world of military. The book helps us to realise the reality of hardship and challenges that the arm personnel faces in their life. The toughness, stubbornness and the dark humours that the soldiers display helps them to be strong and hit-hard during the grimiest of situation. The book enlightens us with some of the secret of military world. There are two types of soldiers – the good and the dead. There is no middle path for them. You either be good or dead! There are no runners-up in war and if the enemy is within range, so are you! 

From the book, I came to know that in military the safety, honour and welfare of country come first, always and every time. The honour, welfare and comfort of the men you command come next. Your own Ease, Comfort and Safety come last, always and every time. In military life sphere there are no rooms for questions and excuses. It should be

“Ours is not to question why

Ours is but to do or die”.

The book also tells you the interesting things about the life in the military: In NDA, there are two golden unwritten rules that they should always know, of course, there are many other such unwritten rules but these two beat the rest hands down.

Rule Number One: A senior is always right.

Rule Number Two: If you have any doubts, refer Rule Number One.

The honour code in military life is the governing principles that determine the code of conduct for them. An officer is always expected to be a gentlman and a man of character first.

You will steal, lie or cheatif you do, for God’s sake, do not get caught!!!

I would encourage and suggest reading this book to understand the indepth knowledge about the world of military. We will understand the sacrifices they make in the line of duty, and how they give away their today so that we can enjoy our tomorrow.

Pelden Drukpa ……..GYALO!!!