Lance Naik Hira Bahadur Thapa of 3/4 Gorkha Rifles was serving with his battalion in the Siachen Glacier area during Operation Meghdoot in September 1987. The unit was deployed in the Bilafond La complex, where troops faced extreme altitude, sub-zero temperatures and repeated enemy attacks.
On 23 September 1987, Lance Naik Thapa was performing sentry duty at an observation post. Despite the harsh weather and difficult visibility, he remained alert and detected movement in front of the position. He immediately informed his platoon commander, allowing the troops to prepare their defences before the enemy attack began.
Standing Firm at Bilafond La
The enemy attack was repulsed. Later that night, two further determined attacks were launched against the position. Lance Naik Thapa continued to fight alongside his comrades, helping to hold the post against repeated assaults.
On the night of 24/25 September, the enemy launched another attack in overwhelming numbers against a neighbouring position. Lance Naik Thapa continued to fight under intense pressure in the extreme conditions of the Siachen battlefield.
He made the supreme sacrifice on 25 September 1987 at the age of 30 while fighting to defend his position. His courage and steadfastness during the repeated attacks became part of the distinguished record of 3/4 Gorkha Rifles in Siachen.
For his exceptional courage and devotion to duty, Lance Naik Hira Bahadur Thapa was awarded the Vir Chakra posthumously.
