Sep Surender

Sepoy Surender's journey into the Indian Army began soon after completing his schooling, driven by a deep sense of patriotism and a desire to serve his nation. He joined the esteemed Maratha Light Infantry Regiment, one of the oldest and most celebrated regiments in the Indian Army. Within this legendary regiment, he became a part of the 16 Maratha Light Infantry (16 MLI), embarking on a path of valour, commitment, and selfless service to the country. The Maratha Light Infantry, with its origins dating back to the 18th century, holds a storied place in military history. Guided by the motto “Duty, Honour, Courage,” the regiment is renowned for its indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication. Over centuries, its soldiers have displayed exceptional bravery, participating in numerous campaigns and military operations both during the pre-independence and post-independence periods. With countless accolades and battle honours to its name, the Maratha Light Infantry stands as a symbol of excellence and pride, inspiring generations of soldiers like Sepoy Surender to dedicate themselves to the defense of their motherland.

By 1993, Sep Surender had established himself as a seasoned and dedicated soldier, known for his professionalism and leadership. That year, his unit, 16 MLI, was deployed in the insurgency-affected region of Nagaland. The northeastern states of India were grappling with significant challenges from armed insurgents, necessitating a robust military presence to restore law and order. Sep Surender's battalion was entrusted with maintaining peace and combating insurgent activities in the region.

Nagaland Operation: 20th Dec 1993

During 1993, Sep Surender's unit was deployed in Nagaland as part of "Operation Orchid" to counter the insurgency that had gripped the region. On the morning of December 20, 1993, Sep Surender was part of a military convoy led by Col N Jayachandran Nair, tasked with traversing the strategic Mokokchung-Mariani Road. This route, infamous for militant ambushes, was critical for maintaining security and the Army's presence in the area. As the convoy advanced through the challenging terrain of dense forests and sharp mountain bends, they entered a vulnerable stretch notorious for attacks. At approximately 8:40 a.m., insurgents ambushed the convoy with a sudden and intense assault. Positioned in concealed vantage points on the hillside, around 100 insurgents armed with automatic weapons unleashed a barrage of gunfire.

During the fierce exchange of fire, Sep Surender fought valiantly, embodying the highest traditions of courage and selflessness that define the Indian Army. In the line of duty, he sustained grievous injuries and made the ultimate sacrifice, laying down his life for the nation. The ambush claimed the lives of 13 other brave soldiers, including Col N Jayachandran Nair, Nb Sub Bhosale MS, Hav Shedge Laxman S, Nk Nikam Balu S, L/Nk Chougule JR, L/Nk AG Jadhav, Sep Ramesh S Kakade, Sep Pabale Nitin M, Sep Jadhav Gorakh N, Sep Patil Mahadev R, Sep Kulkarni NP, Sep Patil Subhash S, and Sep Deepak Galande. Their supreme sacrifice remains a testament to the valor and dedication of the Indian Army. Sep Surender displayed remarkable courage and determination during the battle and laid down his life in the line of his duty.