Vir Chakra (VrC)

Lieutenant Colonel S.C. Joshi, Commanding Officer, Central India Horse, provided close support to a battalion of Sikh Regiment for the capture of Burki on the night of 10 September 1965 and afterwards continuing his advance with a battalion of a Punjab Regiment to the east bank of Ichhogil Canal. Therefore, his advance was temporarily held by enemy minefields. Lieutenant Colonel Joshi himself went forward and tried to find 'a detour round the enemy mines but while doing so his tank was disabled by a mine. In complete disregard of incessant heavy enemy shelling, he walked to Burki and obtained a jeep. Driving the jeep himself, he reconnoitered a passage through the minefield on the canal bank. Inspired by his act, the tank crew gave excellent support to the infantry in the successful completion of the mission. Lieutenant Colonel Joshi was severely wounded in the action when his jeep blew up on a mine. He died later. Throughout, Lieutenant Colonel joshi displayed exemplary courage, leadership and devotion to duty of a high order.