In March 1915 a major Allied offensive around the area of Neuve-Chappelle in France had made some gains but failed to capture the objective of Aubers Ridge, a heavily fortified area of high ground which gave the Germans the advantage of shelter from British Artillery and a view of British movement. To follow up this attack, an assault on Aubers Ridge was scheduled for the 8th/9th of May 1915. It was to be undertaken by the British 4th Corps, the Indian Corps and the British 1st Corps between Richebourg l’Avoue and Fromelles. The primary purpose of this action was to pin down German reserves during a large-scale operation being carried out by the French, to the south.

 

The 2nd Battalions of 2nd, 3rd and 8th Gurkha Rifles (2/2 GR, 2/3GR, 2/8GR) and 1st Battalion of 9th Gurkha Rifles (1/9GR) were all involved. 1st/9th moved forward early on the morning of May 9th but were recalled due to heavy casualties faced by advancing forces ahead of them, and 2nd/2nd received heavy casualties during their attack. The allied attack fell short of its objectives but was renewed on May 15th at the Battle of Festubert.