Friday, May 11, 2007

THE STORY OF THE HERO


2nd Lt ARUN KHETRAPAL- Param Vir Chakra1962-66 - Nilgiri Boys (1950- 71) HERO OF THE NATION Second Lt Khetrapal came from a family with a long tradition of service in the Army. In Sanawar he distinguished himself both in academics and sports. In 1967 he joined the National Defense Academy and then went on to Indian Military Academy. Arun joined the Poona Horse in 1971. On 16 Dec 1971, Pakistan armor had counter attacked Jarpal in Shakargarh sector. On hearing this Second Lt Khetrapal moved along with his troops to assist the other squadron. En route he and his troops came under heavy fire from the enemy. Time was at a premium; that's when Arun threw caution to the winds and started attacking the impending enemy strong points by literally charging at them. He continued to attack relentlessly until all enemy opposition was overcome and he broke through towards the B squadron position. The enemy pulled back, only to be back, reformed with more armor. A fierce tank fight ensured 10 enemy tanks were destroyed (four by Khetrapal). Just then he was wounded and was asked to abandon his tank but he realized the enemy was continuing to advance. If he abandoned, then the enemy would break through. He gallantly kept fighting and destroyed another tank. At this stage his tank received a second hit which resulted in the death of this gallant officer. Second Lt Arun Khetrapal, by his valor, leadership and tenacity of purpose saved the day and the enemy was denied a breakthrough. This was an act of courage and self-sacrifice far beyond the call of duty. He was decorated posthumously by the highest gallantry award Param Vir Chakra


2 comments:

Anonymous said...

foxies alwayz rule.......... priyank....113 fazers....glider champs..

tomar said...

we are the ones who just entered in
we got 4th position in greenhorn