Vir Chakra (VrC)

On 22 October 1962, after a ridge in NEFA had fallen to the Chinese, it became difficult for a platoon post to withdraw as the Chinese had occupied the neighbouring territory. The post's wireless set had also gone out of order. In these adverse conditions, Rifleman Purna Bahadur Tamang volunteered to carry a message from his commanding officer to the commander of the post. Running the gauntlet of enemy fire, he made his way through the jungle and managed to deliver the message in five hours. This enabled the platoon to extricate itself and save the lives of the 40 soldier unit.

In this action, Rifleman Tamang displayed presence of mind, commendable courage, and devotion to duty.