Vir Chakra (VrC)

Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Ian Lawlor was commanding a battalion of Bihar Regiment. On 4 December 1971, he led an attack on a well-fortified enemy position in the Eastern Sector. He launched the attack despite heavy artillery and automatic fire by the enemy and captured the post. 

The enemy reacted strongly to the fall of this post and brought down a heavy volume of fire. Undeterred and with utter disregard for his safety, Lieutenant Colonel Patrick moved from one locality to another encouraging his men to hold on to the position. On 5 December 1971, he skillfully manoeuvered his force and launched an attack on another enemy position. The speed and momentum of the attack created panic among the enemy who fled in confusion, leaving behind dead and large quantities of ammunition.

In this action, Lieutenant Colonel Lawlor displayed gallantry, determination and leadership of a high order.