15 October 1987 | A Braveheart of 35 Battalion, CRPF
On 15 October 1987, Constable Thankappan Mohanan of the 35th Battalion, Central Reserve Police Force, made the supreme sacrifice while serving with the Indian Peace Keeping Force in Sri Lanka. His extraordinary courage during an ambush helped protect the lives of his fellow personnel.
Two CRPF companies were moving from Palali Airfield towards Karawadi East in the Tropo area in a convoy of three vehicles. During the movement, LTTE insurgents ambushed the convoy with rocket launchers, mortars and automatic weapons.
The personnel in the convoy immediately returned fire. Despite the intensity of the attack, the vehicles continued moving as the CRPF personnel engaged the attackers.
Constable Mohanan was operating a light machine gun when bullets struck his chest and badly lacerated his shoulder. Despite these grievous injuries, he continued operating the weapon and delivering heavy fire against the attackers.
He continued fighting until he collapsed. His determination under fire helped protect his comrades and reflected extraordinary devotion to duty. He made the supreme sacrifice on 15 October 1987.
In recognition of his conspicuous courage and gallantry in the face of extreme danger, Constable Thankappan Mohanan was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra. His wife, Padmini, received the decoration from the President of India on 30 April 1988.
His actions remain a powerful example of courage, selflessness and commitment to the safety of fellow personnel. Constable Thankappan Mohanan is remembered for standing his ground under fire and continuing to serve despite grievous injuries.
Constable Thankappan Mohanan, The Honour Post pays tribute to your service, courage and supreme sacrifice.
