Service No : 14421396M

Place of birth : Morena Dist (MP)

Last Rank : Gunner

Unit : 282 Med Regt

Arm/Regt : The Regiment of Artillery

Operation : Op Parakram

Martyrdom : October 24, 2002

Gunner SS Tomar

Gunner Sarbesh Singh Tomar hailed from Tarsma village in Porsa, in Morena district of Madhya Pradesh—a region known for its enduring tradition of courage and service to the nation. Born into a humble family, he was raised in a close-knit environment where values such as discipline, determination, and hard work were deeply ingrained. From an early age, he displayed a strong sense of responsibility and developed immense respect for the Armed Forces. Inspired by the spirit of patriotism and the legacy of soldiers from his region, he resolved to serve the nation in uniform. Fulfilling his aspiration, he joined the Indian Army and was inducted into the 282 Medium Regiment of the Regiment of Artillery—one of the Army’s key combat support arms, renowned for its firepower and decisive role in battlefield operations. Service in such a regiment demanded high levels of skill, endurance, and commitment, all of which Gunner SS Tomar exemplified. He earned a reputation as a sincere and dependable soldier, known for his professionalism and unwavering dedication to duty.

 

Op Parakram (Drass Sector): 24 Oct 2002

 

In 2002, during Operation Parakram, Gunner SS Tomar's unit 282 Med Regt was serving in the Drass sector of Kargil district, along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. This region, located at high altitude and surrounded by steep, barren mountains, is known for its harsh and unforgiving environment. Troops deployed in this sector had to contend with sub-zero temperatures, biting icy winds, treacherous terrain, and rapidly changing weather conditions. Despite these extreme hardships, soldiers at forward posts were required to maintain constant vigilance, as the area remained highly sensitive and vulnerable to hostile activity. Amid these demanding conditions, Gunner SS Tomar carried out his duties with dedication, discipline, and professionalism. His responsibilities at the forward post were critical, requiring sustained alertness, technical proficiency, and the ability to respond swiftly and effectively to any threat. He remained ever-prepared to defend the nation’s frontiers, fully aware of the risks involved in operating in such a volatile environment. His commitment contributed significantly to the operational readiness and defensive posture of his unit.
 

On 24 October 2002, the situation escalated when Pakistani Army troops initiated heavy and unprovoked firing on Indian positions in the Drass sector. The enemy employed mortars and other heavy weapons, subjecting the forward posts to intense and sustained shelling. Gunner SS Tomar was manning his position when the sudden barrage commenced, shattering the otherwise tense silence of the mountainous terrain. The post came under direct threat as explosions reverberated across the area. In response, Indian troops reacted with speed, coordination, and determination, effectively returning fire and holding their ground against the hostile attack. During this fierce engagement, Gunner SS Tomar played a crucial role in maintaining the operational effectiveness of his post. Displaying exceptional composure under fire, he continued to perform his duties with courage and precision, ensuring that the defensive position remained functional despite the heavy and continuous bombardment.

 
Gunner Sarbesh Singh Tomar is survived by his wife Smt Rekha Devi.
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