Remembering the braves

Major Events Vol. 3 Issue No. 47

April 15-30, 2008

Remembering the braves

The Battle of Nyukmadong fought on 18 Nov 1962 between 62 Infantry Brigade, which was carrying out a tactical withdrawal from Sela under the command of Brigadier Hoshiar Singh, and the Chinese forces that had infiltrated from both east and west across Sela. As many as 12 units (both major and minor) formed part of the withdrawing force. A fierce battle ensued, with the enemy, in the general area of Nyukmadong, a small village on the road Dirang - Sela, where several Officers, Junior Commissioned Officer and Other Ranks made the supreme sacrifice after inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy.

A memorial existed a Nyukmadong for many years. However, it was felt that it needed renovation and re-modeling, befitting the enormous sacrifice made by the army. The Ball of Fire Division commenced work on the re-modeling and renovation in Nov 2007 and it was completed in a record time of four months. The Nyukmadong War Memorial located in almost 1.5 acres of land overlooks the famous battle ground of 18 Nov 1962. It is unique in several ways. The War Memorial is nestled on a hill side in three tiers sprinkled with beautiful coniferous trees. The main memorial is in the form of a 25 feet high ‘Chorten’ conforming to the local ethos and traditions. The two entrances simulate the main access ways of a monastery in typical Buddhist style Care has been taken to ensure that the environment and natural beauty is preserved.

Major General DS Sidhu, VSM, General Officer Commanding 5 Mountain Division inaugurated the renovated Nyukmadong War Memorial in the presence of a large gathering of military and civil dignitaries as well as villagers of Nyukmadong. The important dignitaries attended the function were, Major General DS Sidhu, VSM, General Officer Commanding 5 Mountain Division, Brigadier P Satish, Station Commander Baisakhi Military Station, Mr Tshering Gyurme, MLA and Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Mr Martyene Ete, Deputy Commissioner, Bomdilla.

At the outset, Major General DS Sidhu, Vishisht Seva Medal, addressed the large gathering and reminded them of the sacrifices made by the army in general in 1962 an 62 Infantry Brigade in particular during the Battle of Nyukumadong. He said that the War Memorial was a humble tribute to the martyrs of the famous battle and it is a dedication to the entire local community too. Mr Tshering Gyurme, MLA also recalled the enormous sacrifices of the army during the 1962 conflict and the stellar role being played by the army even today in the remote and harsh terrain in Raunchily Pradesh.

The addresses were followed by unveiling of the Inauguration Plaque by Major General DS Sigh, VSM, Wreath Laying, and Planting of Saplings by the dignitaries and tea with the spectators. All personnel who worked towards making the War Memorial a reality were felicitated by the GOC.

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