Param Yodha

Major Dhan Singh Thapa of 1/8 GORKHA RIFLES was in command of a forward post in Ladakh. On 20 October 1962, his post was attacked by Chinese troops in overwhelming strength after intense artillery and mortar bombardment. Under his leadership, the greatly outnumbered post repulsed the attack, inflicting heavy casualties on them. The enemy attacked a second time and met a similar fate. The Chinese attacked for the third time, with infantry supported by tanks. Though considerably reduced in number, the post held out to the last. Major Dhan Singh Thapa killed several enemy soldiers in hand-to-hand combat before he was finally overpowered. Major Thapa's courage, conspicuous gallantry and leadership were in the highest traditions of the Army, for which he was awarded the Param Vir Chakra.