While we live in our cozy home, they guard the frontiers. While we sleep peacefully, they stay awake for our safety. Indeed, any number of thankful notes won’t be enough for these brave hearts of the Indian Army. Here we list down four stories of Indian Army officers who continue to inspire each one of us.
Major Somnath Sharma
Major Somnath Sharma was the first soldier to be decorated with the highest gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra. During the action against Pakistan in November,1947, this brave son of India fought till the last breath of his life. His last message to his Brigade has been an inspiration to everyone who joins the armed forces. He said “The enemies are only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to our last man and our last round.”
Major Somnath Shama
Second Lt. Arun Khetarpal
During the Indo-Pak war of 1971 when the enemy charged with the high-tech Paton tanks at Basantar bridge-head, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal of 17 Poona Horse decided to take down the enemy tanks along with his troops and made the supreme sacrifice while gunning down ten enemy tanks. His last words when being asked to leave his burning tank were “No Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My gun is still working and I will get these bastards”. He was awarded Padam Vir Chakra posthumously.
Arun Khetarpal
Lt. Manoj Kumar Pandey
During the Kargil conflict in 1999, Lt. Manoj of 11 GR was assigned to clear the enemy positions while advancing to Khalubar when it came under intense enemy fire. While clearing the third enemy position he was severely injured. Unmindful of his own injuries, Lt. Manoj continued to charge towards the enemy and took down the fourth position along with his troops when he made the supreme sacrifice. His last words to his troops were “Na chhodnu” (“Don’t spare them”). He was awarded Param Vir Chakra posthumously.
Manoj Kumar Pandey
Capt. Vikram Batra
The 24 years old Capt. Batra (code name Shershah) was assigned to rescue an injured officer on Peak 4875 which was a crucial point captured by the Pakistan army. While clearing the enemy positions, he pushed aside a JCO telling him that JCO had family and children, while he was a bachelor. Capt. Batra made the supreme sacrifice for the nation and was awarded the Param Vir Chakra.
Vikram Batra
Salute to the brave souls.
Author: Anusheel
