Major Man Mohan Chopra was an officer of the Indian Army's 7 Cavalry, serving in the Armoured Corps. Born in Jammu, he was commissioned into the 7th Light Cavalry on 21 December 1947.
In September 1965, Major Chopra was serving with 7 Cavalry during the Indo-Pak War. The regiment was operating in the Khem Karan sector in support of Indian Army operations against Pakistani forces.
The Battle of Chathanwala
On 19 September 1965, a squadron of 7 Cavalry under Major Man Mohan Chopra was tasked with supporting an infantry assault on an enemy position at Chathanwala.
As the attack progressed, the troops encountered strong enemy resistance. Heavy artillery and mortar fire came down on the advancing tanks, while difficult terrain created additional challenges for the armoured force.
Several tanks became bogged down, including Major Chopra's own tank. Despite the intense enemy fire, he remained at the forefront of the operation and worked to recover the stranded vehicles.
He successfully extricated three tanks, preventing their loss and enabling them to continue supporting the infantry. While carrying out this effort, his tank came under heavy enemy mortar fire. A mortar shell struck his position, grievously wounding him.
The Final Sacrifice
Major Man Mohan Chopra succumbed to his injuries and was martyred on 19 September 1965.
His actions during the battle demonstrated courage and determination under intense enemy fire. For his conduct during the Chathanwala operation, he was awarded the Vir Chakra, posthumously.
Major Man Mohan Chopra's name remains associated with the battlefield history of 7 Cavalry during the 1965 Indo-Pak War. His decision to remain with the stranded tanks under fire and continue directing the operation became the defining act of his final battle.
On 19 September, The Honour Post pays tribute to Major Man Mohan Chopra for his courage, service and supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.
