Mahavir Chakra (MVC)

Lieutenant Colonel K.L. Rattan was commanding a battalion of the Sikh Regiment at Poonch. His battalion was assigned the task of holding a feature, which was the key to our defences in this sector. From 3 to 6 December 1971, the enemy launched a series of fierce attacks in strength against the defended area. On each of these occasions, he positioned himself in the most threatened locality and unmindful of the heavy enemy shelling and small arms fire, moved from bunker to bunker encouraging and inspiring his men to beat back the enemy attacks inflicting heavy losses.

Throughout this action, Lieutenant Colonel K.L. Rattan displayed conspicuous bravery and exemplary leadership.