Lt Col K Krishnamoorthy VSM

Lieutenant Colonel K Krishnamoorthy hailed from Hyderabad district in Telangana. From an early age, he exhibited a strong sense of discipline, dedication, and leadership—qualities that would eventually shape his journey toward a distinguished career in the Indian Army. His unwavering commitment to serving the nation was evident even in his formative years, as he consistently displayed a deep sense of responsibility and patriotism. With a clear vision of contributing to the defense forces, he pursued his education with diligence and later joined the armed forces. He was commissioned into the Corps of Intelligence. In this role, he played a crucial part in gathering and analyzing strategic intelligence, aiding military operations, and ensuring national security.

His sharp analytical skills, tactical expertise, and ability to operate under high-pressure situations made him an invaluable asset to his unit. Over the years, he gained extensive experience in counterintelligence operations, demonstrating exceptional leadership in safeguarding sensitive information and preventing security threats. Beyond his professional achievements, Lt Col K Krishnamoorthy embarked on a new chapter in his personal life when he married Ms Subhshbani. Their union was built on mutual respect, unwavering support, and a shared commitment to the values of service and duty. 

Ammunition Explosion-(Srinagar): 29 Mar 1994 

In 1994, Lieutenant Colonel K Krishnamoorthy was serving with the 96 Counter Intelligence Unit (96 CIU) of the Corps of Intelligence, a specialized unit tasked with gathering intelligence and countering insurgent threats. His unit was deployed in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, a region that had become a focal point of insurgency and counter-insurgency operations. Known for his exceptional discipline, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to duty, Lt Col K Krishnamoorthy was stationed at the Badami Bagh Cantonment, one of the most strategically significant military installations in the region. His meticulous approach to security protocols and his ability to handle high-risk assignments earned him immense respect among his peers and subordinates. On March 29, 1994, a high-level team of senior military officers arrived at Badami Bagh Cantonment for an inspection of seized arms and ammunition. The purpose of the inspection was to ensure that the recovered weapons were properly cataloged, secured, and disposed of in accordance with military protocols. Among those conducting the inspection was Lt Col K Krishnamoorthy, who was overseeing the entire process with his characteristic professionalism. However, in the midst of the inspection, tragedy struck. A sudden and massive explosion rocked the area, triggering a devastating fire. The force of the blast was immense, causing significant casualties and widespread destruction within the cantonment. The explosion reverberated across the military base, shattering structures, igniting fires, and leaving behind a scene of chaos and devastation. 

At the time of the blast, Major General EW Fernandes, who was attending a meeting in a nearby building, lost his life. Lt Col K Krishnamoorthy, who was at the forefront of the inspection, sustained critical injuries. Despite all possible medical efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The tragic explosion claimed the lives of several other brave officers and soldiers, who were carrying out their duties with utmost dedication. Among those martyred were Lt Col K Krishnamoorthy, Colonel ET Mathew, Captain Subhash Soraisom Chandra Singh, Naib Subedar Stanislass, Subedar Hoshiar Singh Jangra, Subedar Kundalik Chavan, and Rifleman AB Rashid Khan. Each of these valiant soldiers demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness, upholding the highest traditions of the Indian Army. The sacrifice of Lt Col K Krishnamoorthy stands as a symbol of courage, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to the nation. Lt Col K Krishnamoorthy was awarded , “Vishisht Seva Medal” for his exceptional leadership, bravery and service to the naiton.

Lt Col K Krishnamoorthy, is survived by his wife Smt Subhshbani Krishnamoorthy.