Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) Lt Cdr Vikrant Singh (06046-R)

Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) Lt Cdr Vikrant Singh (06046-R)

Lt Cdr Vikrant Singh was the Officer-in-Charge of Naval Detachment (North) from Nov 18 – Mar 19. During his tenure, the Officer had been at the forefront of several major operations, including two back to back operations; Op BABAGUND and Op WARPURA II in which, a total of five hard core terrorists were eliminated. On 28 Feb 19, at about 1330 hrs, a Joint Cordon and Search Operation was launched by 22 RR along with the Police Special Operations Group and CRPF, in Beighpura Mohalla of Babagund Township, District Handwara. Unfortunately, during the initial stages of the operation itself, six fatal and nine non-fatal casualties were suffered by the Joint Team. At this juncture Para SF and MARCOS were called in for the operation. The situation had turned complex as the two LeT terrorists had managed to break out of the inner cordon and a larger area had to be sanitised by the Special Forces to isolate and eliminate them. The complexity was further exacerbated due to the dense network of houses at the operation site.

9 Para SF undertook aggressive housing clearing drills from one side and MARCOS team was positioned at vantage points to neutralise escaping terrorists. The Officer chose to place himself and buddy in a risky, yet tactically strong position from where they would have wider coverage, and therefore higher probability of targeting the escaping terrorists. Whilst escaping from the fire of Para SF, one terrorist fired upon the officer’s buddy who was in a disadvantageous position. The officer came out of his covered position and fired upon the terrorist thus exposing himself to a grave risk. By taking this brave risk, he not only eliminated the terrorist but also ensured no own casualty and a quick end to the operation as the other terrorist was also eliminated soon. The role of the officer in the operation has also been highly appreciated by GOC-in-C, 15 Corps. For his fearlessness in demonstrating rare courage and ability to take a calculated risk, Lt Cdr Vikrant has been awarded Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry).