Vir Chakra (VrC)

Havildar Phurba Lepcha was platoon commander in a battalion of 11th Gorkha Rifles which was ordered to capture a post in the Kargil Sector. The post, situated on a precipitous slope, was heavily fortified with mines and obstacles making it virtually impregnable. Havildar Lepcha managed to reach close to the enemy bunker undetected and threw grenades silencing one of the machine guns. When the enemy opened fire again, he rushed into one of the light machine gun bunkers and killed the crew. This courageous act inspired his men and led to the capture of the post. 

In this action, Havildar Phurba Lepcha displayed gallantry, determination and initiative of a high order.