10 years on, nation pays homage to its heroes

The sound of the last post in the memory of Kargil heroes reverberated across Drass where families of hundreds of slain soldiers gathered on Sunday to pay tribute to the martyrs for the first time in 10 years.

 “After the demise of my son it is the only happy day of my life. I am thankful that my son has been finally recognised and remembered,” said SP Kalia, father of Lt Saurabh Kalia, who was among the first casualties of the Kargil conflict.

Kalia and family members of hundreds of slain soldiers have gathered in Drass  from all over the country at the invitation of the armed forces to attend the 10th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

While wreaths were laid at the War Memorial amid a majestic flypast by Mig 21 Bison aircraft and showering of petals by Chetak helicopters, relatives got an account of the bravery of their loved ones from armed force personnel, colleagues and friends.

“He has made me famous by his martyrdom. I am proud of my son. He is national hero. I miss him,” Param Vir Chakra awardee Captain Vikram Batra’s father GL Batra said. As he struggles to come to terms with his loss, banker Vishal Batra, has decided to join the Territorial Army (TA) as a tribute to his twin sibling Vikram. “I want to enter the armed forces through TA. This will be my way of paying tribute to my brother,” Vishal, who works with ICICI Bank, said.

“It is not only an emotional but a moment of pride for us. We are here to remember our brave soldiers,” General officer commanding in chief Northern command, Lt Gen PC Bhaderwaj said.

This year, the ceremony was attended by former army chief General VP Malik, who was the chief of army staff when the war broke out.

The armed forces carried out a series of events to observe the day.  “Defence personnel were heli-dropped on the recaptured peaks, which were illuminated at night. A photo exhibition was also held,” army officials said.
(With inputs from agencies)