Vir Chakra (VrC)

On 3 November 1962, 2nd Lieutenant Pradeep Singh Bhandari was detailed to go out with a patrol to a position in NEFA, outflanking the Chinese main defences and to act as a forward observation officer. The aim of the patrol was to bring down observed artillery fire on enemy positions and to gain the maximum information regarding the concentration and movement of the enemy. The patrol travelled over very difficult terrain, operating at a height of over 14, 000-ft. It spent two nights behind enemy positions and collected very valuable information. On the return journey the patrol was ambushed on 4 November by a numerically superior Chinese force

The patrol assaulted the enemy four times but each time was driven back by heavy enemy fire. Realising the vital necessity of ensuring that information of the presence of enemy forces on the flank reached his brigade HQ 2nd Lieutenant Bhandari decided to fight his way through to the base. He kept the patrol on the move throughout the night over difficult and rugged terrain and brought it back to the base safely. During the night the enemy attempted to intercept 2nd Lieutenant Bhandari and his party several times, but did not succeed due to his determination. After a further night's march the patrol finally reached the brigade headquarters on 5 November.

During this assignment, 2nd Lieutenant Bhandari showed considerable presence of mind, leadership and courage of a high order.