Heroes of Our Armed Forces

This Independence Day, let's honour the heroes who sacrificed their lives so that we could be safe. Regrettably, we often take them for granted. Instead, we put glib politicians, who do not mean what they say, on a pedestal.

- MONICA FERNANDES

CAPT. ANUJ NAYYAR: Forces were quickly mobilized to deal with a massive infiltration of Pakistan troops in Kargil, J&K. The 17 Jat Company secured Pt. 4875 which was 15990 ft. above sea level. The company commander was injured and Capt. Nayyar was in command. He destroyed the first enemy bunker, and proceeded with seven men to destroy two more bunkers, killing nine enemy soldiers. The Jat Company captured the point and inflicted heavy damages on the enemy but at a great sacrifice. Eleven Indian soldiers were martyred on 7 July 1999, including Capt. Nayyar who was only 23 years old. He was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra.

COL. N. J. NAIR of the 16 Maratha Light Infantry was posted in Nagaland. He headed an advance party which was ambushed by rebels. He sacrificed his life on 20 December 1993 while defending his men and was conferred the Ashoka Chakra posthumously. He is the only serviceman to have been awarded both the Ashoka Chakra and Kirti Chakra for gallantry