Vir Chakra (VrC)

On 31 May 1948, in an operation near Tithwal in Kashmir Valley, the First Battalion of the Sikh Regiment was given Mir Kalsi Ridge as its objective. To achieve this objective, it was necessary that point 7802 be scured. This high feature was very strongly held by well-trained enemy. “A” company was detailed to attack and capture this feature. Major KL Suri Commander, “B” company who had suffered a few casualties on the previous attack on one of the enemy positions, again volunteered to take this company to capture this feature. Going ahead with his leading platoon, Major Suri suddenly came under heavy fire from the enemy who was on a higher feature than him. Taking up his position right under the enemy, Major Suri organised and led a flanking attack on the enemy. Encouraging his men with the Sikh war cry “BOLE SO NIHAL-SAT SRI AKAL” he egged on his men and his small figure could be seen right in front waving his stick and pushing his men on to the objective. 

The battle that ensued was a fierce and long one, and the platoon was held up due to heavy opposition. Major Suri then decided to push his 3rd Platoon through and going back he took this platoon up and put in charge on the enemy, over ran his position and inflicted great number of casualties. Not satisfied with this, this officer took out a fighting patrol and recovered 23 of the enemy dead, a lot of equipment and stores. This officer’s fearless leadership, calm and clear judgement in the midst of the enemy and presence of mind was the only factor, which enabled his company to achieve what it did. It was later confirmed that the enemy was so demoralized that he fled from positions further behind. This action facilitated the Battalion’s further advance and the final capture of Mir Kalsi Ridge.