Brave Soldiers · Param Vir Chakra
Karam Singh
Lance Naik (later Subedar and Honorary Captain) · 1915 – 1993
Twice wounded, he refused to be evacuated and held the post at Richhmar Gali.
On 13 October 1948, at Richhmar Gali near Tithwal, Lance Naik Karam Singh of 1 Sikh held a forward post through repeated enemy attacks. Though wounded, he kept moving between trenches, encouraging his men and leading counter-attacks until the post was secure.
Early life and background
Born into a farming family in Punjab, Karam Singh joined the army in 1941. During the Burma campaign he was awarded the Military Medal for his actions in the Battle of the Admin Box in 1944.
Historical context
In October 1948 enemy forces launched a determined effort to recapture Tithwal. Forward posts such as Richhmar Gali came under intense attack.
Key achievements
Karam Singh commanded a section post that was attacked repeatedly. Despite his wounds he refused evacuation, kept his men fighting, and joined in close-quarter fighting to throw back attackers who reached the trenches.
Important events and milestones
- 1941 Joins the army.
- 1944 Awarded the Military Medal in Burma.
- 13 October 1948 Defence of Richhmar Gali.
- 1969 Retires as Honorary Captain.
- 20 January 1993 Dies.
Awards and honours
Param Vir Chakra; Military Medal.
Later life
Karam Singh rose to the rank of Subedar, was conferred the honorary rank of Captain, and retired in 1969. He died in 1993.
Enduring legacy
He is honoured by the Sikh Regiment and at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.
References
- Gallantry Awards portal, Ministry of Defence (opens in a new tab)
- Wikipedia — Karam Singh (with cited sources) (opens in a new tab)
Portrait: Official portrait (painting) · Indian Army · GODL-India · Source (opens in a new tab) · Licence terms (opens in a new tab)
This account is compiled from the sources listed and is offered as a tribute, not as an official record. Corrections are welcome at connect@vedacloud.ai.