Service No : 13894216Y
Date of Birth : June 10, 1965
Place of birth : Mattiwad Dist (Kar)
Service : Army
Last Rank : Naik
Unit : 557 ASC Bn
Arm/Regt : Army Service Corps
Operation : CI & IS Ops
Martyrdom : January 16, 2005
Naik Rajendra H. Tibile, born on 10th July 1965, hailed from Mattiwad village in Hukkeri Taluk of Belgaum district, Karnataka. He was the son of Shri Harigovinda and Smt Radha Bai, and grew up in a humble and close-knit family with two brothers and two sisters. Naik Tibile completed his schooling in his hometown of Mattiwad, where he was known for his hardworking nature and a strong sense of responsibility toward his family and community. Inspired by a sense of duty and patriotism, he decided to serve the nation by joining the Indian Army. In 1983, at the young age of 18 years, Naik Rajendra H. Tibile was recruited into the 557 Army Service Corps (ASC) Battalion, part of the Army Service Corps, which plays a vital role in ensuring the logistical support required for the Indian Army's operational success. The ASC is responsible for transporting essential supplies such as food, fuel, and ammunition to various units deployed in diverse and often challenging terrains. Naik Tibile embraced the challenges of military life, and his early years in the Army shaped him into a disciplined and competent soldier.
After serving for a few years, Naik Rajendra H. Tibile married Ms Indhu in 1994, and the couple was blessed with four daughters: Rusha, Thrupthi (twins), Shradha, and Deeksha. As a devoted family man, Naik Tibile balanced his demanding military duties with his responsibilities toward his family, providing them with love and support despite the challenges of Army life. By 2005, Naik Rajendra H. Tibile had completed over 22 years of distinguished service in the Army and had been promoted to the rank of Naik. Over the years, he served in various operational areas, showcasing exceptional dedication and adaptability. His postings took him to Rajasthan, where he experienced the harsh desert environment, and to Manipur and Assam, where he faced the complexities of counter-insurgency operations in challenging terrain and high-pressure situations. Through his tenure in these diverse regions, Naik Tibile earned the respect of his peers and superiors for his professionalism, unwavering commitment, and exemplary work ethic.
Convoy Attack: 16 January 2005
In 2005, Naik Rajendra H. Tibile's unit was deployed in the militancy-affected region of Assam, where insurgency by groups like ULFA (United Liberation Front of Asom) posed a constant threat to peace and security. The region’s challenging terrain and hostile environment required continuous vigilance, and the troops of Naik Tibile’s unit were frequently engaged in counter-insurgency operations to combat militant activities. Their duties involved regular patrolling to monitor suspicious movements, securing vulnerable areas, and ensuring the safety of convoys transporting troops and supplies. Convoy movements in the area were particularly risky, as militants often targeted them to inflict significant damage and disrupt military operations. These convoys, which carried personnel, weapons, and essential supplies, were always escorted by armed soldiers prepared to respond to ambushes. Naik Tibile and his comrades regularly undertook such perilous assignments, displaying exemplary courage and dedication to their duties.
On 16 January 2005, Naik Rajendra H. Tibile was part of a convoy tasked with transporting troops and supporting equipment for an operational mission. As the convoy proceeded through a vulnerable stretch of road in the insurgency-hit area, ULFA militants launched a sudden and fierce attack using automatic weapons. The ambush was designed to inflict maximum casualties and disrupt the convoy’s mission. Despite the element of surprise, Naik Tibile and his fellow soldiers immediately rose to the occasion. Displaying remarkable composure under fire, they launched a determined counter-attack to repel the militants. A fierce gun battle ensued, with heavy exchange of fire from both sides. The soldiers fought valiantly, trying to thwart the ambush and protect the convoy. During the intense firefight, Naik Tibile was struck by enemy gunfire and sustained severe injuries. Despite being critically wounded, he continued to fight with courage and determination. However, his injuries proved fatal, and Naik Rajendra H. Tibile made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Naik Rajendra H. Tibile’s sacrifice ensured the safety of his comrades and the success of the mission, exemplifying the highest traditions of the Indian Army.
Naik Rajendra H. Tibile is survived by his wife Smt Indhu, and their four daughters: the twins Rusha and Thrupthi, Shradha, and Deeksha.
No Comments