During the British retreat in Malaya following the Japanese invasion in December 1941, Captain Mahmood Khan Durrani and a small party of soldiers managed to evade capture for three months before their location was betrayed to the Japanese sponsored
Indian National Army (INA). He refused to co-operate with the
INA and actively worked to thwart their political and military aims, for which he was subjected to severe torture and mistreatment, which left his health permanently affected.
Citation "The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the GEORGE CROSS, in recognition of most conspicuous gallantry in carrying out hazardous work in a very brave manner, to:- :Captain MAHMOOD KHAN DURRANI, 1st Bahawalpur Infantry, Indian States Forces.
Account of Deed Captain Durrani was presented with his George Cross by
Field Marshal Lord Wavell in 1946 at a special investiture ceremony held at the
Red Fort,
Delhi. ==References==