The first Indians who went into combat in World War Two were the Royal Indian Army Service Corps' muleteers, at Dunkirk

A walnut wood box from Kashmir, India, with the carved emblem of the Royal Indian Army Service Corps.

Dunkirk is perhaps the most famous military retreat in history. Amidst its many stories of gallantry, perhaps none is less known – and more interesting – than that of 300 Punjabi and Pathan muleteers, divided into four companies, who ceaselessly moved stores, ammunition and supplies, under enemy fire. While one of the four companies was captured by the Germans, the rest soldiered on until the chaotic, bitter end and were finally evacuated. Keeping their discipline, turn-out, self-respect and pride – but sadly giving away their precious mules and horses to the local French farmers.