The War Decorated India & TrustGallantry medals awarded by War Decorated India

“When the pin is pulled, Mr. Grenade is not our friend.” — U.S. Marine Corps

Vir Chakra (VrC)

Awardee: Madan Lal VrC

Gazette Notification
18 Pres/2000,15-8-99
Operation
Op Savage (Sikkim)
Date of Award
01 Jan 1999

Citation

Havildar Madan Lal was the Section Commander tasked to capture area Top on Eastern spur of Tiger Hill in the Drass sector during "Operation Vijay". Subsequent company attack hinged on his success to capture the area Top and establish a foothold. Having deployed his fire support base, he attempted to assault area Top from the most difficult approach. The enemy was holding area Top strongly having readjusted itself so as to inflict effective fire.

Despite heavy odds of attacking uphill at 16,500 feet against accurate enemy small arms and grenade fire, Havildar Madan Lal fearlessly pressed on with the help of mountaineering equipment and reached area top in six hours. Undeterred and without losing nerve, he approached the enemy from an unexpected direction. This daring action cut off the enemy and they started withdrawing in panic. Two intruders, who got trapped, were killed. During this firefight, Havildar Madan Lal sustained severe injuries but continued fighting till his last. 

Enthused by his brave and determined charge and refusal to get evacuated, his Section was able to capture two sangars on area Top that later facilitated in capture of area Top of Tiger Hill. Havildar Madan Lal displayed extraordinary courage and junior leadership before making the supreme sacrifice for the country. 
Click here for Awardee's details