Name: Naib Subedar Kosh Bahadur Gurung
Regiment: 1 Gorkha Rifles
Unit: 15 Rashtriya Rifles
Rank: Naib Subedar
Award: Kirti Chakra
Date of Action: 10 September 2014
Location: Sundarmali, Kupwara, Jammu & Kashmir

Naib Subedar Kosh Bahadur Gurung of 1 Gorkha Rifles was serving with 15 Rashtriya Rifles when his Ghatak Platoon was tasked with an operation at an altitude of 12,500 feet in Sundarmali, Kupwara, Jammu & Kashmir, on 10 September 2014.

A group of heavily armed terrorists had taken advantage of darkness and the cover provided by large rocks to attempt infiltration. They were armed with assault rifles and UBGs. Sensing the danger and the possibility of the terrorists escaping, Naib Subedar Gurung displayed exceptional courage and moved forward through heavy fire.

Finding a narrow gap between the rocks, he moved ahead alone and began engaging the terrorists. He lobbed grenades towards their position and succeeded in pinning them down. Crawling forward until he was within ten metres of the terrorists, he fired accurately through a small gap and eliminated one terrorist.

The remaining terrorist then opened fire and attacked Naib Subedar Gurung. With extraordinary courage and determination, the Gorkha JCO drew his Khukri and charged towards the terrorist. In a fierce hand-to-hand fight, he overpowered the terrorist and eliminated him.

Exceptional Courage in Sundarmali

Naib Subedar Kosh Bahadur Gurung displayed remarkable courage in the face of grave danger. Moving alone through heavy fire, he brought the enemy under pressure, engaged the terrorists at close range and then closed in with his Khukri when the final confrontation demanded it.

His actions during the operation reflected the legendary fighting spirit of the Gorkha soldier and the highest traditions of the Indian Army. His courage, determination and fearless leadership during the operation earned him the Kirti Chakra.

Naib Subedar Kosh Bahadur Gurung's actions at Sundarmali remain a powerful example of courage in battle and of the determination of a soldier who willingly placed himself in extreme danger to accomplish his mission.

We remember his courage.
We honour his valour.
We preserve his story. 🇮🇳