Far from home and loves ones, these heroes sacrifice their own lives so the entire nation can sleep in peace. The stories of their courage and passion are larger than life. They are legends whose tales will not just make your chests swell with pride, but whose sacrifices will leave your eyes a little moist.
The Indo-Pakistani war of 1971 started on December 3 in 1971, where 3,800 soldiers of India and Pakistan sacrificed their lives in this war to end the genocide Pakistan had been conducting against the Bengali population of East Pakistan.
The countless stories of sacrifice and bravado which remain buried in the battleground itself.
They are all heroes. But there are a few whose stories have become the stuff of legends, stories that deserve to be shared and told.
- Major General Ian Cardozo
Major General Ian Cardozo’s name will forever be etched in our hearts due to his innumerable achievements. He was a young major with 5 Gorkha rifles during the 1971 war.
He was forced to chop off his own leg in order to survive. Even after losing his one leg, he continued to perform his duty and fought for the nation by successfully competing against several new soldiers.
- Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal
Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal of the 17 Poona Horse regiment is yet another braveheart who died too young at the age of 21. He died in the Battle of Basantar during the Indo-Pakistan War, where his brave actions earned him the Param Vir Chakra posthumously.
Despite the myriad obstacles that came his way, he firmly stood by his troop and defended his country till the very end.
- Major Hoshiar Singh
Major Hoshiar Singh’s sacrifice can never be forgotten and the way he fought for the country in the 1971 war will always remain. He was a popular legend in the Indian army. He was given the task of establishing a bridgehead across the Basantar River in the Shakargarh.
Major Hoshiar Singh along with his troop gave tough time to Pakistan army and inflicted heavy casualties on them. Despite being heavily wounded, he refused to evacuate till ceasefire.
- Lance Naik Albert Ekka
Lance Naik Albert Ekka played a crucial role behind India’s victory in the Battle of Hilli or the Battle of Bogra. Agartala, was located near the state capital, was a prime target for the Pakistanis. Ekka and his men’s contribution in safeguarding Agartala cannot be forgotten. He was also posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his valour and courage.
- Flying Officer Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon
Officer Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon was honoured with Param Vir Chakra for his contribution in the 1971 war. The way he defended Srinagar Air Base against a PAF raid is historic and sure to give you goosebumps.
He also happens to be the only member of the Indian Air Force to have been honoured with the Param Vir Chakra.
