Vir Chakra (VrC)

On 1 May 1948, during the advance to Thannamandi, Subedar Major Shyam Mal was second in command of a company, which had been ordered to capture the Nirojal feature, a stronghold of the enemy. The objective was attacked by two companies, his company being on the right flank. When the attack was first put in, the enemy opened up with all manners of weapons, including3-inch mortar, and inflicted some casualties. The attacking companies were pinned down.

Anew approach was decided upon and Subedar Major Shyam Mal led a platoon up from the right himself. The country was tough in the extreme but this untiring JC0 led his men up with remarkable zeal. Many a stalwart men fell to enemy firing that day and by the time he reached near this objective, Subedar Major Shyam Mal had but a section with him. But realising the urgency of the situation, he charged the enemy with such fury that he completely dislodged them and captured the objective. Even this did not seem to satisfy him for he carried on and literally chased the enemy for a full 1000 yards with only two men with him. Subedar Major Shyam Mal was instrumental in capturing this feature almost single-handed.

His courage, supreme devotion to duty and complete disregard for his personal safety were a magnificent example to all those with him. His was a perfect example of bravery.