On His Martyrdom Day, India Salutes the Heroism of Param Vir Chakra Awardee Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria

December 5, 1961 – On this day, Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria of the 3/1 Gorkha Rifles displayed unparalleled valor and made the ultimate sacrifice during a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Katanga, Congo.

 

 

Captain Salaria was tasked with clearing a roadblock near Elizabethville, Katanga. With just two sections of Gorkha soldiers and two Swedish armored personnel carriers (APCs), he advanced towards the enemy position. As his force neared the site, they were ambushed by a heavily armed group of 90 soldiers supported by two APCs.

 

 

Undeterred, Captain Salaria made a split-second decision to launch a daring frontal assault. Armed with bayonets, khukris, and grenades, he led his men into a ferocious charge. In the ensuing close combat, his force killed 40 enemy personnel and disabled both APCs, severely weakening the adversary and contributing significantly to the success of the main operation.

 

 

However, Captain Salaria sustained a grievous neck injury from automatic fire during the encounter. Though gravely injured by enemy fire, Captain Salaria continued to lead his men until he succumbed to his wounds. His courage ensured the mission’s success and earned him the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honor.