Metallic, I love the quote. A friend in Indian army told me once that Gurkhas are employed in both Indian and british army. Infact they form the first line in Infantry taking the bullets. Still remember the friendly Gurkha watchman in my hometown who would show us his 'kukri' (curved knife) while narrating deadly encounters with dacoits.
I am still in awe with another tribe in Nepal called the 'Sherpas' I employed while trekking himalayas. These seemingly short and fragile men with mild nature (and great sense of humour) have the energy of a bear. They climb like mountain goats while I would be stopping frequently to take a gasp (under the pretext of taking snap shots.) I salute these wonderful people.