Tug of War in Southern Lebanon

Earlier this year, I visited the Indian contingent of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) -- the multi-national army monitoring the cease-fire between Lebanon and Israel -- and was impressed by their seriousness and attention to the detail. The Indian unit, known back home as the 15th Punjab, is the oldest and most decorated unit in the Indian Army, and had brought their battalion silver along with them to prove it.

But perhaps the 15th Punjab takes some things a little too seriously. Earlier this week, they sent me this press release:

"Continuing its winning stint for the tenth consecutive time, the indomitable gallant peacekeepers of 15 PUNJAB Infantry Battalion Group added another feather in their cap on 13 Nov 2007, by clinching the hotly contested Inter Contingent Tug of War competition. "

"Displaying team spirit, stamina and a technical edge over all other teams, the Indians were clearly miles ahead in terms of temperament, and physical strength. After the win, the team members were congratulated by the sporty Belgians and many of them were seen doing the impromptu Bhangra [a traditional dance], which followed after this deserving win. It is pertinent to note here that 15 PUNJAB Infantry Battalion Group has in the past 10 months won the UNIFIL Inter Contingent Lawn Tennis, Volleyball, Cross Country, Pool, Badminton, Commando & Obstacle crossing, Shooting & Patrolling competitions."

Lawn Tennis? Badminton? The 15th Punjab was once part of the British Army, but I don't think even the British Army plays badminton anymore.

But the 15th Punjab isn't a bunch of country clubbers. Their last mission was fighting Islamic insurgents in Kashmir. Southern Lebanon must be boring them batty. Let's hope it stays that way.

--Andrew Lee Butters/Beirut