Bangladesh Liberation War 1971 is the only foreign soldier and hero symbol,William A.S.Ouderland
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| The only foreign soldier of Bangladesh war, Bir Pratik William A.S.Ouderland |
City TV News, 03/09/2018
Among the many heroes of the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, one stands out as the only foreign soldier to have earned the title of Bir Pratik for his immense contribution to the country's fight for independence. His name was William A.S. Ouderland, an Australian who played a pivotal role during the nine months of bloody conflict that led to the liberation of Bangladesh.
William A.S. Ouderland first arrived in Dhaka in 1970, working as the production manager for Bata Shoes. By early 1971, he had been promoted to Executive Director at the Bata Shoe factory in Tongi. But the peaceful life he had known would soon be shattered. On the night of March 25, 1971, the Pakistani occupation forces launched a brutal massacre in Dhaka as part of "Operation Searchlight." Ouderland, who had witnessed the horrors of that night, managed to send reports to international media, bringing global attention to the atrocities being committed.
At the time, Ouderland had become closely connected with several key figures in the conflict. Through his role as a CEO at a multinational company, he had access to crucial information, and he used this to aid the Bangladeshi freedom fighters. Ouderland worked with high-ranking officials, including Colonel MAG Osmani, and provided information about the Pakistani forces.
But Ouderland’s involvement didn't stop there. He took a more direct role in the struggle, training guerrilla fighters with his own workers and organizing them into forces capable of disrupting the enemy’s communications and transportation. He led efforts to destroy critical infrastructure such as bridges and railways, particularly along the Tongi-Bhairab railway line, in collaboration with local Bengali warriors.
His bravery didn't go unnoticed. Ouderland received covert support from the Australian Deputy High Commission in Dhaka, who helped him in his mission. Despite the constant danger and violence surrounding him, Ouderland remained steadfast in his commitment to the cause of Bangladesh's independence.
After the war ended, Ouderland returned to his home in Australia in 1978. However, his dedication to Bangladesh never wavered. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, he became the only foreign national to be awarded the prestigious title of Bir Pratik, a symbol of honor for those who showed exceptional bravery and sacrifice during the Liberation War.
William A.S. Ouderland passed away on May 18, 2001, at the age of 80, in Perth, Australia. Though his passing marked the end of a remarkable life, his legacy lives on in Bangladesh, where his bravery and selflessness are celebrated by those who remember him.
As Bangladesh celebrates its 44th Independence Day, it’s important to take a moment to remember this incredible foreign hero, whose name is often overlooked in the media. William A.S. Ouderland stands as a testament to the global support that the fight for freedom can garner, and it is time for all of us to pay homage to a man who stood by Bangladesh in its darkest hours, helping to shape the nation’s future.
Let us remember his courage, his sacrifice, and his unwavering belief in the cause of freedom.
