Subedar Raghunath Singh of 2 Punjab made the supreme sacrifice on 24 October 1948 during the 1947–48 Indo-Pak War in Jammu and Kashmir. He was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra in recognition of his courage and devotion to duty during an operation near Pir Badesar.
Courage in the Face of Enemy Fire
During the advance towards Pir Badesar, an Indian Army column encountered intense enemy fire from positions near Giran. The advance was halted, and an assault was planned for the following morning.
Subedar Raghunath Singh's platoon led the attack. During the advance, he was wounded by enemy fire. Despite his injuries, he encouraged his men to continue towards their objective rather than allowing concern for his condition to interrupt the assault.
He continued to urge his men forward even after falling again. His determination helped sustain the platoon's advance, and the objective was ultimately captured. His injuries proved fatal, and he succumbed to them on 24 October 1948.
The Vir Chakra
Subedar Raghunath Singh was awarded the Vir Chakra for his conspicuous courage, leadership and devotion to duty. His actions under fire reflected the responsibility borne by a leader who continued to encourage his men despite grave personal danger.
Remembering His Sacrifice
On the anniversary of his martyrdom, The Honour Post pays tribute to Subedar Raghunath Singh, Vir Chakra, of 2 Punjab. His courage and determination remain part of the Indian Army's history of the 1947–48 war in Jammu and Kashmir.
