Vir Chakra (VrC)

Vanchitatil Oommen Cherian was the Observation Post Officer with a company of Maratha Light Infantry which was deployed in the Western Sector. On 9 December 1971, the enemy launched an attack in strength on the company and subjected it to heavy artillery and medium machine gun fire. Unmindful of his personal safety, CaptainVanchitatil Cherian crawled forward to an observation post and brought down accurate artillery fire on the attacking enemy thereby disorganising the attack. The enemy launched another attack in greater force and once again Captain Cherian, though wounded, brought down heavy and accurate artillery fire on the enemy and thus enabled the attack to be repulsed.

Throughout this action, Captain Vanchitatil Oommen Cherian displayed gallantry, determination and professional skill of a high order.