Mahavir Chakra (MVC)

After the cease-fire on 17 December 1971, Pakistani troops occupied an area approximately 600 yards inside our territory in the Western Sector and developed this into a defended locality with minefields all around it. The locality was dominated by other defensive positions across the border held in strength by the enemy. A battalion of the Parachute Regiment was given the task of clearing this encroachment. Major Vijay Kumar Berry carried out the assault. Leading his men through the minefield, he charged the enemy position without any regard for his personal safety and captured the objective. The enemy, however, subjected the position to heavy artillery and mortar fire for the next twelve hours. Undaunted, Major Berry moved from section to section, inspiring his men and held on to the captured ground and cleared the intrusion.

In this operation, Major Berry displayed conspicuous gallantry and outstanding leadership.