On that night in Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir, Captain Harshan, 26, and his troops cordoned a terrorist hideout. Four terrorists tried to break the cordon and virtually came face to face with the captain.
Despite being outnumbered, he killed one terrorist, but was shot in his thigh. In spite of his injury, he killed another terrorist. But in a cruel stroke, an enemy bullet hit the young officer in the neck and India lost one of its bravest soldiers. His commanding officer recommended Harshan for a gallantry award for his exceptional valour and leadership.
On the day India celebrates Republic Day on January 26 and most of the country enjoys a lazy public holiday, Captain Harshan's parents will step up to the podium on Rajpath to accept the Ashok Chakra from the President of India, the Supreme Commander of India's armed forces.
In a nation short of heroes and bereft of youngsters opting for a career in the armed forces, it will be worth our while to switch on our television sets on Saturday morning to watch that solemn ceremony. Because it is important to remember our brave soldiers, to spare a thought for the Indian soldier and what it takes to be one.
Image: Harshan, right, in training at the NDA. Photograph: Courtesy, Captain Harshan's family
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