On 28 June 1999 Captain Vijyant Thapar was commanding the Leading platoon of Alfa
Company, which was tasked to assault area Knoll in Drass Sector frome the north
during Operation Vijay While advancing, the platoon was hit by accurate enemy
artillery barrage and it sufferred heavy casualties. Captain Thapar organized
evacuation of the casualties and quickly rallied his shell-shocked platoon for the
attack. Personally leading the attack from the Northern face against enemy's Medium
Machine Gun fire, which was holding up the Company's assault, he fearlessly charged
at the enemy position firing from the hip and throwing grenades. During this act,
he was grievously injured in the hand and stomach but continued to advance ordering
his men to follow him. Roused by the actions of their young Platoon Commander
barely out of the Academy, the platoon charged up the hill against the dominating
enemy position. This audacious action unnerved and forced the enemy to abandon a
tactically superior position. The officer, however, succumbed to his injuries.
Captain Vijyant Thapar, thus, displayed remarkable cool, raw courage and exemplry
valour and made the supreme sacrifice while facing the enemy.
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