Sepoy Sher Singh

Sepoy Sher Singh hailed from Kursen Nagar village, Bhau, in Rohtak district of Haryana—a region renowned for its strong martial traditions and deep-rooted patriotism. Growing up in such an environment, he imbibed the values of courage, discipline, and service to the nation from an early age. Inspired by a deep sense of duty, he chose the path of military service and joined the Indian Army. He was inducted into the 13th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment, one of the Army’s most distinguished infantry regiments, known for its proud legacy and exemplary record of gallantry across numerous operations. Being part of such a prestigious regiment, Sepoy Sher Singh carried forward its rich traditions with honour and dedication.

Throughout his service, he displayed exemplary discipline, unwavering commitment, and a selfless devotion to duty. He wore the uniform with immense pride and upheld the highest standards of the Kumaon Regiment. By 1962, his battalion was stationed at Ambala and was subsequently deployed to Jammu & Kashmir, reflecting the Army’s confidence in its operational readiness and capability during a period of growing security challenges.

Battle of Rezang La (Indo-China War): 18 Nov 1962

In June 1962, the 13 Kumaon Battalion, in which Sepoy Sher Singh was serving, was moved from Ambala to Baramulla in Jammu & Kashmir under the command of Lt Col H.S. Dhingra. As tensions along the northern borders escalated, the battalion was ordered in September to proceed to Leh at short notice. On arrival, it came under the operational control of the 114 Infantry Brigade, commanded by Brigadier T.N. Raina, who later became the Chief of Army Staff. The brigade was entrusted with the formidable task of defending nearly 400 kilometres of the Indo-China border, including the strategically crucial Chushul sector, and comprised units such as 14 J&K Militia, 7 J&K Militia, 5 Jat, 1/8 Gorkha Rifles, and 13 Kumaon. Sepoy Sher Singh was part of ‘C’ Company of 13 Kumaon, led by the gallant Major Shaitan Singh. As part of the defensive deployment, ‘C’ Company was assigned to hold the vital Rezang La position. While ‘A’ Company under Maj G.N. Sinha remained in reserve at Chushul, ‘B’ and ‘D’ Companies under Capt R.V. Jatar occupied Maggar Hill to strengthen the defensive layout. By late October 1962, the troops at Rezang La had established well-prepared defensive positions. The company was deployed across the forward slopes, with different platoons covering key approaches, and a mortar detachment positioned on the reverse slope to provide essential fire support.

In the early hours of 18 November 1962, the Chinese forces launched a major offensive, coinciding with attacks in other sectors. Rezang La, held by ‘C’ Company, became a focal point as it guarded the approaches to the Chushul airfield. The enemy launched repeated assaults through the night and early morning, but each attack was met with determined resistance. Despite being heavily outnumbered and under constant fire, Sepoy Sher Singh and his comrades fought with exceptional courage, holding their positions against overwhelming odds. As the battle intensified, the defenders suffered heavy casualties, yet they continued to resist with unwavering resolve. Battling extreme cold, harsh terrain, and relentless enemy fire, Sepoy Sher Singh stood his ground until he was critically wounded and ultimately made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

The valiant stand of 13 Kumaon at Rezang La remains one of the most heroic chapters in military history, significantly delaying the enemy advance and protecting the Chushul sector. After the ceasefire, the area remained snowbound and desolate, and the bodies of the fallen, including Sepoy Sher Singh, were discovered months later by a local shepherd—an enduring reminder of their extraordinary bravery and sacrifice.

Sepoy Sher Singh is survived by his wife Phulpati Devi.