Vir Chakra (VrC)

Subedar Dewan Chand was in command of Post Takkar, situated at a height of 18,000 feet in North Ladakh. On 20 October 1962, the Chinese launched a general offensive on all our posts in that area. The personnel of these posts were ordered to withdraw to the post commanded by Subedar Dewan Chand. On the next day, by ceaseless effort, Subedar Dewan Chand stabilised the situation. In the afternoon the Chinese started threatening his north flank. With a small force of 10 men Subedar Dewan Chand engaged a Chinese patrol of about 10 men and forced it to retreat. Later the Chinese launched a large-scale attack on his post with mortars and medium machine guns. Subedar Dewan Chand repulsed this attack also. But by that time his position had become untenable and he was ordered to withdraw and concentrate at a place a few miles to the south-east. Subedar Dewan Chand carried out the withdrawal with skill. 

Subedar Dewan Chand displayed leadership, initiative and courage of a high order.