New Delhi, November 18: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today, paid tribute to the fallen heroes of the Indian Army during the Rezang La battle which was fought in Ladakh between India and China in 1962. A total of 114 men of 13 Kumaon Regiment fought to the last men and last round against the Chinese Army on November 18, 1962. Major Shaitan Singh led the Charlie Company of the Indian Army. The early hours of that day witnessed a fierce battle between the Indian and the Chinese soldiers. Major Singh was given a task to defend Rezang La, which is a strategically important post. Independence Day 2018: The Wars That Indian Armed Forces Fought Since 1947

The Indian Company repulsed seven attacks by the Chinese Army. The Indian soldiers chose to fight till the last men instead of retreat. For his leadership and exemplary bravery on the battlefield, Major Singh was conferred with India’s highest gallantry award, Param Veer Chakra. The army officer received this award posthumously. The battalion became the proud recipient of the Battle Honour ‘Rezang La’ and theatre honour ‘Ladakh’. Brigadier (Retd) Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, Hero of 1971 Longewala Battle Dies at 78

Rezang La is a mountain pass on the south-eastern approach to Chushul Valley in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir. It is 3,000 yards long and 2,000 yards wide, with an average height of 16,000 feet. The UNESCO listed this battle in the eight stories of collective bravery. A memorial was also constructed near Dharuhera Chowk in Rewari city. Rezang La Park was also constructed in the city by Rezangla Shaurya Samiti. Every year, memorial functions are held by the Samiti in collaboration with district administration and the Kumaon Regiment.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 18, 2018 02:03 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).