Naik Gee Varghese KD KC

Sepoy Gee Varghese was born on April 4, 1967, in the historic and culturally rich town of Pulpally, located in the Wayanad district of Kerala. He was the beloved son of Deva Sia K.J. and Smt. Mariamma, who played a pivotal role in shaping his early character. Pulpally, like much of Kerala, has long been known for its proud military traditions and significant contributions to the Indian armed forces. Growing up in this environment, young Sep Varghese developed a deep-rooted sense of patriotism and a heartfelt aspiration to serve his country. This burning desire to contribute to the nation's defense eventually led him to take a decisive step toward his calling.

On January 9, 1985, Gee Varghese enlisted in the Indian Army, a moment that marked not only a significant personal milestone but also the beginning of a journey in the service of the nation. He was inducted into the 14th Battalion of the Assam Regiment, a distinguished infantry regiment celebrated for its fearless soldiers, rich legacy, and commendable history of gallantry in various theatres of combat.

Op Kaziranga (Assam):  26 Mar 1998

In the year 1998, Naik Gee Varghese K.D., serving with the 14th Battalion of the Assam Regiment, was deployed in the insurgency-affected state of Assam as part of ongoing counter-insurgency operations. On March 26, 1998, during Operation Kaziranga, his unit was assigned a high-risk mission in Pakihaga village, a region known for frequent militant activity. Acting on credible intelligence inputs, Naik Gee Varghese was part of a small but determined team of security personnel tasked with locating and neutralizing suspected terrorists believed to be hiding in the area. The team meticulously cordoned off a house suspected of sheltering armed insurgents. As the troops closed in, the terrorists, realizing they had been surrounded, opened indiscriminate fire in a desperate bid to escape. In the initial volley of gunfire, Naik Gee Varghese sustained serious injuries. However, despite being grievously wounded, he displayed extraordinary courage and presence of mind. Refusing evacuation or retreat, he continued to advance under heavy fire, driven by an unyielding commitment to protect his fellow soldiers and accomplish the mission.

With immense physical effort and sheer willpower, Naik Varghese crawled toward the source of the firing. Braving bullets and bleeding from his wounds, he managed to approach one of the armed terrorists. In a swift and decisive move, he engaged the enemy at point-blank range, neutralizing the threat instantly. His gallant action disrupted the terrorist resistance and allowed his team to press forward, ultimately leading to the successful completion of the operation. Tragically, Naik Gee Varghese succumbed to his injuries shortly after the encounter. His fearless actions, executed in the face of mortal danger, exemplified the highest traditions of valor and sacrifice upheld by the Indian Army. In recognition of his conspicuous bravery, unwavering dedication to duty, and supreme self-sacrifice, Naik Gee Varghese K.D. was posthumously awarded the "Kirti Chakra" — India’s second-highest peacetime gallantry award — on January 26, 1999.

Naik Gee Verghese KD is survived by his wife, Smt Bindu Varghese.

The citation for the ‘Kirti Chakra’ awarded to him reads :

During Op Kaziranga on 26 Mar 1998, Nk Gee Verghese KD was part of a small team ops which had cordoned off terrorists in a house in Pakihaga village of Assam. On realizing the situation the terrorists immediately opened up fire injuring Nk Gee Verghese. However, displaying indomitable courage despite his injuries, the brave rhino crawled close to a terrorist and shot him on his head immediately killing him. This brave act lead to the success of the operation, however at the cost of his life.

For his courage, undying spirit and selfless Nk Gee Verghese KD was awarded Kirti Chakra (posthumous) on 26 Jan 1999.