Vir Chakra (VrC)

With only 15 men at his disposal, Jemadar La1 Bahadur Pun, on his own initiative, launched an attack against the enemy, eight times as strong, and by a clever tactical manoeuvred made him flee in panic. The action took place on 23 November 1948 on the hills overlooking Kargil Road and Kharal Bridge. It was imperative that the enemy be dislodged from the hills, but crossing the river was a slow and difficult process. Realising that to wait for the entire company to cross over would be a waste of valuable time, Jemadar La1 Bahadur took the daring decision to attack immediately. With 15 men he set off to capture the most dominating hill and with personal example got all his men atop it. Then working his way downhill he got behind the enemy and wiped out the topmost enemy position. 

The enemy fled, leaving behind 10 killed. There were no losses on our side. This Gorkha officer showed great initiative and daring leadership during the operation.