Inauguration of War Memorial honouring Lt Hawa Singh VrC
The inauguration of a War memorial to honour Lt Hawa Singh VrC, 4/5 GR was held at his village Mirzapur, Hisar on 21 Nov 2019. A bust of the martyr was also unveiled. Lieutenant Hawa Singh laid down his life in the service of his country during 1971 Operation Cactus Lily on 21 Nov 1971. For this act of bravery, he was awarded the Vir Chakra.
The Citation reads:
“A Battalion of Gorkha Rifles was given the task of capturing an enemy position in an area in the Eastern Sector. The enemy was holding a well-fortified position supported by medium machine guns. During the assault, Second Lieutenant Hawa Singh was seriously wounded by enemy fire. Undeterred and regardless of his personal safety, he pressed his charge and cleared five enemy bunkers and killed a number of enemy personnel.
His daring example inspired his company to capture the objective. Later he succumbed to his injuries. In this action, Second Lieutenant Hawa Singh displayed commendable courage, initiative and determination.”
The Government of Haryana donated 5 acres of land to construct a stadium in his memory, along with the memorial.
A large number of his class and course mates were present at the event, in addition to the local villagers and community leaders. The ceremony started with laying of wreaths at the memorial by the contingent of 4/5 GR, who had come from Pune, followed by local Commanders and Heads of various ESM organisations. A remembrance meeting was then conducted. Local school children presented a cultural program which was appreciated by all. Since Lt Hawa Singh VrC attained martyrdom as a bachelor, his uncles and nephews were there along with village Sarpanch and the local MLA who coordinated the event.
Col Ajit Singh Rana, President TSEWA (North India, Haryana & Delhi) attended the function and paid his respects on behalf of TSEWA.
For more information about the the Battle of Atgram and the Khukri Assault by 4/5 Gorkha Rifles on 20th/21st Nov. 1971, please read http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/ARMY/history/429-battle-of-atgram.html