Sepoy Vajir Raste D

Sepoy Vajir Raste D hailed from Ozare village in Indapur Taluka of Pune district, Maharashtra. He was the proud son of Shri Dattaraya Banaji Raste. From a young age, Sep Vajir was deeply inspired by the ideals of patriotism and service to the nation. His childhood dream was to don the olive green uniform and dedicate his life to protecting the country. After completing his schooling in his native village, he worked hard to turn this dream into reality and successfully joined the Indian Army. He was recruited into the 19 Mahar Battalion of the Mahar Regiment—one of the most distinguished infantry regiments of the Indian Army, renowned for its fearless soldiers and rich history of valour in numerous battles. The 19th Battalion of the Mahar Regiment, raised on 11 February 1985, has earned a proud place in the history of the Indian Army for its valour and resilience across demanding operational environments. Based at its regimental center in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, the battalion has participated in all major operations since its inception, including the Kargil War of 1999, where the Mahar Regiment as a whole displayed extraordinary courage in defending the nation’s borders. 

Counter-Insurgency Operation (J&K): 04 Sep 1999

In 1999, Sep Vajir Raste's unit 19 Mahar was deployed in J&K. Following the Kargil conflict, 19 Mahar was tasked to undertake intense counter-insurgency operations in treacherous and volatile terrain of J&K. It was during one such critical mission on 04 September 1999 that Sepoy Vajir Raste D distinguished himself through his unwavering commitment to duty. Operating in a hostile environment where every movement carried immense risk, Sepoy Vajir Raste D faced the enemy with remarkable composure and bravery. In the heat of the operation, he fought gallantly, placing the safety and success of his team above his own life. Tragically, he made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, upholding the finest traditions of the Indian Army. 

Sepoy Vajir Raste D’s courage and selflessness embody the spirit of 19 Mahar—a battalion renowned for its professionalism, dedication, and indomitable will. His sacrifice not only safeguarded his comrades and strengthened the mission’s success but also reinforced the battalion’s legacy of service to the nation. The memory of Sepoy Vajir Raste D serves as a powerful reminder of the price of freedom and the extraordinary heroism of those who defend it.