1 October – RHINO VETERANS

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Chennai Rhinos

Despite heavy rains , Red alert for floods and my suggestion to postpone , the Chennai Rhino Anchor,  Maj Roy insisted we go ahead with our lunch get together at Palm Grove Army Officers Institute .

Good we went ahead.  

It was to bid farewell to Maj Gen & Mrs  Prakash Chandra. Gen who is the COC of DB Area is  hanging  his boots end of this month and moving to  Garden City.

It was great to hear  that  Gen Chandra wants to remain as member of Chennai Rhino Group even after he moves to Bangalore 

We also said bye to Maj Chaurasia  who is posted out from OTA.

And we also could welcome Col & Mrs Gopendra Puyam to Chennai 

All of us have reached safely back home. Capt Gautam has to still  give arrival report! He has flooded roads to cross.

Rhinos know how to make life adventurous 

Tagra Raho !

PC: Mrs Smita Prakash  ! Her phone and prompt!

*Lunch on the plane*

I sat in my seat on the plane. It’s six hours flight to Delhi. Reading a good book, getting an hour of sleep — these are the things that I generally do in my journey.

Exactly before take-off, 10 soldiers came and sat in the seats around me. All the seats were filled up. I asked the soldier sitting next to me just to pick up a conversation. “Where are you going?”

“Agra, Sir! Will be attending a training there for two weeks. Then, we’ll be sent for operation,” he said.

An hour passed. The announcement was heard. That those who want, can pay money and have lunch. Well, at least the lunch business will be over I thought. I overheard as I was thinking of taking the purse and booking my lunch.

“Shall we have lunch too?” Asked one of the soldiers “No! Their lunch is expensive. Let’s get off the plane and eat at a regular hotel!”

“Okay!” other soldiers agreed.

I went to the flight attendant. I gave her money for everyone’s lunches, saying, “Give them all lunch too.” I saw tears in her eyes. “My younger brother is in Kargil, Sir! Looks like you gave him a meal, Sir! It seemed to me for a moment.” I came into my seat and sat down.

Lunch boxes arrived for everyone in half an hour… I finished my meal and was going to the washroom behind the plane. From the back seat came an old man. “I noticed everything.Congratulations
 
to you.” He shook hands with me saying he’d like to take a share in that good work. He pushed a 500 rupee note into my hand saying… “Let me take part in your happiness.”

I got back. I sat in my seat. Half an hour passed. The pilot of the plane, looking up for my seat number came up to me. He looked at me and smiled. He said he wanted to give me a shake hand. I unbuckled my seat belt and stood up. He shook my hands and said, “I used to be a fighter pilot. Then someone like you bought me a meal. It is a symbol of the love within you. I will never forget it.”

Passengers on the plane applauded. I felt a little ashamed. It’s a good thing I did but I did not do it for compliments.

The journey is over. I got up and walked towards the front seats a bit. I stood near the door for the landing. An 18 year old boy put a note in front of me giving me a shake hand. Another person put something in my pocket and left without speaking. Another note.

The soldiers who landed with me all met in one place as I got off the plane. I went to them and took out the notes given to me by fellow passengers inside the plane and handed them to them saying, “This money will come in handy for you to eat anything before you go to your training place. It’s less whatever we give you than (compared to) the protection you give us! Thank you for the work you are doing for this country. God must bless you and your families with love!” I had tears in my eyes.

Those ten soldiers are carrying with them the love of all the passengers on the plane. Getting into my car, “Take care of the longevity of those who are going to give their lives for this country, Lord! I prayed God wholeheartedly. A soldier is someone who spends his life like a blank check paid to India. “A blank check that pays for life.”

Yet, there are those who do not know their greatness! No matter however many times you read this, it’s a tear-jerking thing.

Whether you share it or copy and paste! It’s your choice! Send it to someone else. Respecting these loving children of Mother Bharat is respecting our own selves.

Jai Hind 

Brig Charandeep Singh , Comdt ARC becomes a Veteran at the end of the day.

He is a Head Hunter and hear his farewell remarks shared by him in Rhino WA Group.

*Today I hang my boots after donning combats for 33 years, 2 months & 12 days*. I was commissioned as a third-generation officer in the Assam Regiment, after my grandfather and father. The family soldiering legacy commenced in 1856 all through WW1, WW2, 1962, 1965, 1971 & present-day conflicts. I have proudly contributed 33 years to 165 years of family soldiering. In these last 33 years I had a proud privilege of serving with the finest warriors of the Indian Army, the most competent mentors and amazing human beings. This wonderful org gave me a platform to evolve, learn, consolidate & enhance my wisdom, personality and my confidence. Army has taught me survival, not only in rugged terrain, high altitudes and jungles but in real life too, taught me that human body can take unlimited battering’s, it’s only the mind which should never give up, what better example can I give than a 40 Km endurance run with 30 kg load, finishing in 5h 20 mins and thereafter straight away rushing for 16.5 meters Lido jump. Army has taught me that THINKING OUT OF BOX is a contemporary prerequisite & CHANGE is the only constant.

• Whatever I am today, I owe it to the greatest organization on this planet, unparallel & unmatched, where one is groomed & structured to be mentally robust, physically tough, a warrior & a gentleman at the same time. Engrained in our DNA is “NEVER TO LEAVE ANYONE BEHIND” & the greatest lesson I have learnt is “FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION”.

• I will miss soldiering every second of my life. Will miss the adrenaline rush, crack of an assault rifle, smell of gunpowder, radio chatter, tac gear, bugles, bagpipes, Rhino Boys, bonda’s, pakora’s, besan burfi, egg curries. Badlu-Ram-ka-Badan………the list is a never-ending. I smelled the gunpowder and Avtomat Kalashnikov crack one last time today at the range.

• I earnestly thank all my mentors in uniform for motivating me to carry on when the chips were down and my wife Rita for standing by me through all the storms of life. I want to thank Shirin and Angad for all the sacrifices they have made by staying alone without dad in FAFA for prolonged periods. I want to apologies to them for not being their for their birthdays, Diwalis and New year’s.

• I want to salute all the warriors under my command who laid down their lives for the flag and this country. Nothing is more painful than saying final goodbye to the body bag of one of your own. I also want to salute all the warriors who were injured and lost their limbs, believe me it breaks your heart when you see the uncompromising pride in a soldier’s eyes even after his leg has been amputated. I pray to God Almighty to give them a special place in Heaven.

Tagra Raho

Heartfelt condolences to Col Martin Khongmen , family and friends on the passing away of Mrs Valvie Khongmen wife of Col Martin Khongmen.

Sharing of Victor son of Col Khongmen below:

People from all walks of life came to pay their last respects to Mom at home and at the cemetery.

The Almighty God was gracious and granted us a beautiful day to lay Mom to rest inspite of inclement weather warnings amongst a congregation of family, friends and acquaintances.

The Rhinos of Shillong led by Brig Charandeep Singh, Brig SA Usman, Maj Jonathan and reps from 119 TA were with us till the entire service was over.

Mommy always loved flowers and as you can see, her grave was covered with a bouquet of fresh flowers.

We thank the Lord God Almighty for everything.

Tagra Raho

IT HAPPENS ONLY IN THE ARMY.

We were deployed at the Indo- China border , way back in 1979 . Across the border there was a large movemnt of YAKS and the assessment was that the Chinks were carrying out winter stocking .The GB(Commanding Officer ) had instructed all post cdrs to do physical counts of such moves and inform the tac HQ. The tac HQ was not very far from the base location where the familes were loc , hence all md offrs were permitted to visit base loc over the weeknd. It wa a weeknd again and all of us were in the mess .The Adjt (Staff Officer ) was busy updating the yak counts .The GB had overruled the mov of the md offrs this time , inspite of the fact that it was KARWA CHAUTH .Der were sulking faces . It was 3 PM when the Adjt announced ‘ Sir the Yaks have started gng back”. There was a lull silence which was broken by a subaltern’s remark ” Un YAKS ka Bhi KARWA CHAUTH hoga” . All the officers present looked at him and burst out laughing

Copy Paste from Head Hunters Page:

On 6th Oct, Maj Gen MV Chandran hosted a party for his friends from Madras University. And he made sure Head Hunters were also there. (Mrs Chabi Datt could be there..Betty sun down no outing as she has to take care of Super Senior Dad at home)

Venue was at the Palm Grove Officers Institute thanks to Maj Gen Prakash Chandra COS of DB Area . They too were there.

(Two Rhino Generals – One Chandran and the other Chandra . Two Rhino Moons )

So it was recall of wild days of yore.

When Chandran joined the unit in Kota in 1982 I was his Senior Subaltern. I acted as his driver. Picked him at the Rly Stn and just short of the Officers Mess stalled the 1 Ton and put the bonnet up. Someone else was to take over from me the welcome bit , but before that 2Lt Suresh of 4 Madras comes by and wishes me and the game was up.

Chandran became my perpetual room/ tent mate – Kota ,Sikkim , Bhutan.

Bhutan and Kota I used to be the Adjt and Chandran QM. In Bhutan our offices were in the same one 180 lb tent !

(We offered the Adjt’s tent to the CO , Col KK Subba who wanted to be nearer to us perhaps )

And finally for a long golden period we both in advance party under Maj KJ Nair. (Only PT for 1 hour , games for 1 hour and late night dinners with Betty trying to keep awake.)

Last I met Gen Chandran at ARC for Platinum Jubilee in 2016.

What a privilege to have been the Senior Subaltern of the first Maj Gen of the Head Hunters!

The unit had to wait for forty long years to see the first flag officer from our very own! Now many more already in tow and many more to follow. A Lt Gen and a Gen soon !

Tagra Raho
Copy Paste from Head Hunters Group:
Within a week we could enjoy two Head Hunters reunion at Chennai.
On Gandhi Jayanthi it was at Madras Gymkhana to welcome Col Gopendra Puyam – first reemp here.
Gopi was my first Coy Officer after I got my permanent command of a Coy – Alfa Coy – at Beas. He joined in Jun 90.
We were the Champion Coy in 90 -91. Up from 4th position the previous year..And next year we did lose to B Coy narrowly- Maj Palande and 2Lt Anil.
Next time together was in the Advance Party to Takurbari.
( I had just rejoined unit at Hyderabad after BMs tenure in Babina. CO , Col Promit Roy was wondering which Field Officer to send for I think 3 of them were preparing for Staff College Exam. Maj Palande with the Pre Staff Course. I volunteered . 2IC Lt Col KJ Nair wanted to step in so that I can stay longer at Hyderabad. But he was already under posting.
I proceeded with 2Lt Edwin. We were headed towards Mongba in Manipur and just before reaching there were diverted to Takurabari thanks to the efforts of Col KJ Nair.)
Gopi then followed up and brought Betty and the kids. ( Betty was adamant not to go to Chennai as suggested by me saying that if she did not get confirmed reservation to Chennai by a particular date it is a sign that she would stay and decide later. And she was so confident she could join me wherever I go. Her prayers were answered and we could be at Takurbari together. The unit which we took over from were always deployed away from the unit lines)
Next time with Gopi was at Mukuli when he came as a newlywed with Mrs Dhanarani. CO was away on leave. 2IC Maj Sanjay on SC..So I was officiating CO and 2IC. Gopi was QM and OC HQ coy at Bn HQ location . The other officer was Kartik handling Adjts job and two rifle coys. Capt Anil with an officer on attachment and two coys deployed away from us.
So on Gandhi Jayanthi it was like being back to Mukuli.
Later Col Gopi had the privilege like me to command Mighty Thirty Five.
The next reunion in the next post.
The Chief Guest in the Center !
Left Jason & Betty left Mrs Chabi Datt & Col Kartik

Came across the following piece on FB. A bit long but what an inspiring story really. Read on…..For those who haven’t so far.

After a day’s hard work you could simply walk into the Officers Mess & shout ‘Koi Hai? – one Whisky please’ and you drown your worries with ‘Ek aur Whisky Maro’.

What a splendid story of grit and determination. Legendary!
Cavalry – Airforce – ASSAM Regiment

It is the story of the Second Commanding Officer of 4 ASSAM, Lt Col Gurbax Singh penned by his son Brig Dhanao.

Please read on ! Thanks to the efforts of Col Manish Agarwal, Veteran Anchor of 4 ASSAM

LT COL GURBAX SINGH
27 Aug 1918 – 30 Dec 2010

Born on 27 Aug 1918 in a middle class Farming / Army family in a small Punjab Village Ropalheri (Tehsil Kharar), Lt Col Gurbax Singh was the youngest of his three siblings (one sister & two brothers). His parents were very hardworking and God fearing people. His Father S Kartar Singh had served with Patiala State Forces and with Maharaja Bhupinder Singh. His mother Smt Bachan Kaur was a very religious, kind, generous but a strong lady.

Those were times when few children went to school, Lt Col Gurbax Singh, motivated by his parents, did his Matriculation from Khalsa High School, Kharar in 1932. He used to walk 10 Kms (one way) for his school from the Village. By now his elder two brothers were already serving with Royal Deccan Horse Regiment (RDH) and the Regt was then in Poona. He was a bright & hardworking student. With a desire to study further, he was sent to Poona to his brother. He took admission in ‘Deccan College’ in Apr 1932. Unfortunately, he could not cope up with the high standard of education (as compared to what he studied in Punjab) and left the college to get enrolled in RDH. There he was found under weight and was rejected. During this time RDH moved out from Poona to Quetta and he was left alone, but, did not wanted to go back to the village. To support himself he took a small temporary job in ‘Hadapsar Paper Mill and Ordnance Depot Kirkee’ on daily wages of Re 1. He used his spare time to learn typing & short hand. Since this was a temporary job he was advised by his seniors to look for a permanent job, which he got in ‘3 Coy Indian Hospital Corps’ as a clerk & storekeeper on 30 Oct 1934, with a salary of Rs 14 + Rs 22 as DA per month. Here he excelled in his training. With an aim to become an officer, he passed his ‘English First Class’ and ‘Indian Army Special Cert’, both mandatory for entry into IMA. Seeing his performance he was recommended by his CO, Lt Col R Foot and up the chain by the Army Cdr, Maj Gen S Pope for IMA. Being from a Service Corp AMC, he was now attached with 5/14th Punjab Regt as a Bye Cadet for Combatant Military Training. Lt Col Bonam Carter, the CO of the unit took very keen interest in his training. But to his bad luck, his entry to IMA was rejected by Army HQ on technical grounds that the Medical Corps personnel are not permitted for Trg at IMA for Regular Commission & that there was no precedence on this. He was very disappointed and sought transfer for RDH to make himself eligible for entry to IMA. Comdt RDH (Lt Col FBR Tinley) was happy to take him as his elder two brothers were now Jemadars (JCO’s) in the Regt.

In the meantime WW II broke out and he got an opportunity to apply for Emergency Commission – but – his Sqn Cdr in RDH (Maj JA Wardle) did not forward his application and told him that “the RDH cannot be treated as a stepping stone for success elsewhere”. During the period he did Horse Riding training at 2 IACTC, Lucknow. Years passed and his Sqn Cdr Maj CR Hill, who was very sympathetic to him, recommended his name for Trg as a JCO cadet to Comdt Lt Col WB Perse, who promptly agreed. On 15 Apr 1942, he was sent to 47 CAV which was at Poona for six months for this Trg. From there he did his ‘Armament’ and ‘D&M’ courses at Ahmednagar – both courses he got QI grading. During this period a Camouflage School was being established at Kirkee for which there was a need for an English speaking JCO instructor. He was posted there and taught aspects of camouflage especially with reference to enemy aircrafts.

He again applied for Emergency Commission but the application was rejected. God had his own way to help – the Comdt of the Camouflage School (an IAF Offr) was very impressed by his knowledge, sincerity & dedication. When he came to know of his struggle to become an officer, recommended him for Emergency commission into Air force. He was sent to SSB Jabalpur where he was the only candidate selected for Flight Cadet, out of a batch of 40. Flight Cadet Gurbax Singh joined IAF on 03 Aug 1944 at the ‘Parsee Orphanage Poona’ for trg. He was declared the 2nd best cadet and the Nawab of Pataudi (Hony Air Commodore) was the Chief Guest at the POP. Later he was sent to Jabalpur Air Base for flight training on Corner Aircrafts. From there he was posted to Ambala as an Acting Pilot Officer where he trained on Harvard T-6 and later flew Hurricanes. He had done near 80 hrs of flying, when bad luck struck again.

Like they say, ‘God puts some people through more rigorous tests in life’ – he started having medical issues while flying above 20,000 ft. He was to be medically boarded out – but – was given an option to revert back to the Indian Army. With a never say die approach, he opted to be reverted back to the Army. By now his name and story had spread and the Senior Officers were sympathetic towards him. A Brig (British Offr) at Saharanpur interviewed him and approved him for Short Service Commission into the Army. He was sent to OTS Bangalore on 07 Feb 1946 for training (from an officer in IAF and now back to Army as a cadet – what luck). At OTS he was the oldest cadet with the next 10 yrs younger to him. He writes that he was treated with lot of respect by all the staff at OTS and even took a few classes for them.

Finally he was commissioned into The ASSAM REGT on 13 Oct 1946 and reported to the Regt Centre at Shillong. He was the First person in and around his village to have got commissioned as an Officer in the Indian Army and there was lot of jubilation with sweets being distributed.

 
From the Regt Centre he was sent for Junior Leaders Course at MHOW and on his return was appointed as the QM and promoted to Capt in Jun 1947. The country faced its biggest challenge of Partition and a lot of British and Muslim Offr’s left for Britain & Pakistan. In Jul 1948 he was granted permanent commission. Always eager to perform, he then took on himself the challenge of passing the entrance exam for Defence Services Staff College, for which he had only one chance to appear. While he was attending the JC Course (JC-6), the staff college results were declared and true to his belief he had passed (surprisingly his own DS at the JC Course could not make it). He attended DSSC-4 when Gen Lentaigne was the Comdt and it was the first Joint Service Course (Aug 1950 – Jun 1951). After the course he was posted to HQ Pathankot Base as Staff Capt Q. Finally on 06 Feb 1954 he was posted to 3 ASSAM Bn which was at Muzafarpur and later moved to Ferozepur.
He was ‘C’ Coy CDR when the Hussainiwala – Bela incident took place with the Pak Rangers in 1955. C Coy was also part of the flood relief in Punjab in Sep-Oct 1955 when Ferozepur town was in severe danger from the flooded Sutlej River. He was awarded COAS Commendation for his devotion during the floods. In Sep 1956 he was posted to 8 ASSAM RIF which was located at Imphal. In 1958 he came back to 3 ASSAM and later in Oct 1961 was posted as DQ 166 INF Bde located at Dalhousie. He was now over-age for Comd of a regular Bn, but seeing his career profile, a special dispensation was given and he took over Comd of 4 ASSAM Bn on 10 Sep 1963 as the 2nd CO after Lt Col T Sailo (later CM Mizoram). The unit was at Hyuliang(NEFA) and he led a very happy team till Jan 1967. Before his retirement on 27 Aug 1968 he served as AQ Jalandar Sub Area.
He felt he was too young to retire so he took re-employment in BSF in Aug 1968, where he was first the Comdt Trg Centre at Hazaribag and later Commanded 53 Bn BSF at Naoshera during the 1971 war. He finally hung his boots in 1973.
It’s important to mention that he was blessed with six Children (two Daughters & four Sons). His vision made him shift his family from his village to Chandigarh for the education of his children.

He motivated all his sons to join the Army and they all went through NDA (Maj Gen Mohan Singh, Engrs; Late Col Sohan S Dhanoa, RAJ RIF; Col Jagmohan S Dhanoa, Armd Corps; Brig Manmohan S Dhanoa, VSM, 11 GR). One of his daughters got married in the Army (late Brig AS Poonia, VSM, JAK RIF) and the other was married to an architect who later retired as the Chief Architect of Chandigarh (Sarabjit Singh Sandhu). In the centre page of the DSSC Coffee Table book there is a photograph with a title ‘Six Owl’s in one family’ – as all are PSC. Everyone is retired now.
He lost his dear wife on 29 Dec 1993 due to Brain Hemorrhage and finally he departed, peacefully in his sleep, on 30 Dec 2010 leaving a permanent void in the family.

What a journey
In his hand written memoirs he winds up the Good Army life with a statement –I quote “After a day’s hard work you could simply walk into the Officers Mess & shout ‘Koi Hai? – one Whisky please’ and you drown your worries with ‘Ek aur Whisky Maro’.

MY DEAR LAXMAN RANA. I can only say that, it was your uniquely unique efforts & extra ordinary initiative which made at least a fairly good financial differences to the most unfortunate victims of worst ever ambush took place during your Comd. You did every possible things to make sure that, they get their full quota of ex gratis payments legally applicable then for the ambush victims. The biggest consolation for you even today is: you did approach & met all concerned with all the sincerity & never left anything for chance for its natural course for proper justice. You went up to that extent & located the letter lying in the idle file to rest for the indefinite period. It will be a great lesson for the young generation of OFFRS how best to take care of their troops irrespective of ranks. I once again convey my thanks for your great initiative & efforts. S RANJAN DAS

A very noble gesture by you Laxman as a foster father to the deceased. I am sure the blessings of Almighty are with you.🙏👍

Two Rhino Generals with Headhunters

L to R . Col Gopendra Puyam, Maj Gen MV Chandran, Maj Gen Prakash Chandra, Mrs Chandra , Mrs Chabi Datt, Lt Col Kartik Datt and self.

Happy VIJAYA DASAMI DUSHERA May God shower you with good health wealth and prosperity. Blessings. Ramanans

Sir Tagra Raho. Lt Col Lakar Reuben Das Jun 1961 Commission officer Retd after Comdg 119 Inf Bn TA at Shillong, and settled down at Chandigarh, he passed away in 2000 , same year when his Coursemate Brig IS Cheema also was no more in Chd. His daughter was suffering from cancer as well. Tagra Raho to everyone yet again.

Today I hang my boots after donning combats for 33 years, 2 months & 12 days. I was commissioned as a third-generation officer in the Assam Regiment, after my grandfather and father. The family soldiering legacy commenced in 1856 all through WW1, WW2, 1962, 1965, 1971 & present-day conflicts. I have proudly contributed 33 years to 165 years of family soldiering. In these last 33 years I had a proud privilege of serving with the finest warriors of the Indian Army, the most competent mentors and amazing human beings. This wonderful org gave me a platform to evolve, learn, consolidate & enhance my wisdom, personality and my confidence. Army has taught me survival, not only in rugged terrain, high altitudes and jungles but in real life too, taught me that human body can take unlimited battering’s, it’s only the mind which should never give up, what better example can I give than a 40 Km endurance run with 30 kg load, finishing in 5h 20 mins and thereafter straight away rushing for 16.5 meters Lido jump. Army has taught me that THINKING OUT OF BOX is a contemporary prerequisite & CHANGE is the only constant.

• Whatever I am today, I owe it to the greatest organization on this planet, unparallel & unmatched, where one is groomed & structured to be mentally robust, physically tough, a warrior & a gentleman at the same time. Engrained in our DNA is “NEVER TO LEAVE ANYONE BEHIND” & the greatest lesson I have learnt is “FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION”.

• I will miss soldiering every second of my life. Will miss the adrenaline rush, crack of an assault rifle, smell of gunpowder, radio chatter, tac gear, bugles, bagpipes, Rhino Boys, bonda’s, pakora’s, besan burfi, egg curries. Badlu-Ram-ka-Badan………the list is a never-ending. I smelled the gunpowder and Avtomat Kalashnikov crack one last time today at the range.

• I earnestly thank all my mentors in uniform for motivating me to carry on when the chips were down and my wife Rita for standing by me through all the storms of life. I want to thank Shirin and Angad for all the sacrifices they have made by staying alone without dad in FAFA for prolonged periods. I want to apologies to them for not being their for their birthdays, Diwalis and New year’s.

• I want to salute all the warriors under my command who laid down their lives for the flag and this country. Nothing is more painful than saying final goodbye to the body bag of one of your own. I also want to salute all the warriors who were injured and lost their limbs, believe me it breaks your heart when you see the uncompromising pride in a soldier’s eyes even after his leg has been amputated. I pray to God Almighty to give them a special place in Heaven.

All the best for your next innings.

131 Dear Balwan a very useful writing. Mohinder Behl

Welcome to the fold, very well done, the Regt will miss u – all the best for the future

CD-All the best for your next inning. You have done the Regiment proud.

Tagra Raho.

Dear Charanjeet, this evening comes to all of us. We all look forward to next morning which has lots of light. You have done a tremendous service to The Regiment and carried the Centre to new heights. You have a great spirit and love for good things of life. We both wish you all good health, prosperity and happiness in your future persuits. Best wishes and regards. Tagra Raho👏👏👏👏🙏👍

Dear Charandeep we have seen you & known you right from your childhood days.

As a matter of fact you were born as a spirited & a die hard Rhino.

You have had an illustrious career spanning over 33 years & done proud to your grand parents, parents and the Assam Regiment.

Neena joins me in sending our profound wishes to you, dear Rita & loving children Shirin & Angad for a blissful, contended and even more prosperous & eventful life in your new Avtar of a VETERAN. Tagra Raho

Proud of you as ever Chandeep, Three Generations in Desh Seva with the Regiment. Best wishes with you always. Tagra Raho.

Dear Brig Ceedee, ( Kuki to me always )

The young lad who grew up wearing his grandfather’s medals and fathers boots , has helmed a third generation innings in the Regiment which is a rear feat . A ground tiger who always called a spade a spade and as the CC has shaped the recruits at the Centre as battle worthy soldiers of tommorow to forge their future innings in the olive green . You have taken the Centre to a new level of excellence . Wishing you and Rita a solid second innings and welcome to the Veterans fold . As parents you are blessed to have doting children in Shirin and Angad . God bless them both . Wish you and the family a blissful and great journey ahead . Tagra Raho. Radha and Murali ( Coots )

L to R Maj Bhatacharya (records), AGE, Lt Datar, Capt Raj, Capt Shering, Capt Sood, Lt Barganza, Capt Madan Singh,

Back row Maj Ramalingam, Maj Manral and Capt Sarkar

👍👍👍

HAPPY DEEPAVALI prayers regards blessings ramanan swarna

Dear all, yesterday Rhinos got together at the Army Officers Institute, Juhu, Amchi Mumbai to greet & bless the newly weds (SHUBHA & SRIRAM), D/o Col & Mrs Unni.

Left to Right. Lt Col Vikas, Maj Kutty, Mrs Radha Kutty, Brig Gaikwad, Mrs Gaikwad, Proud Father (in Regimental Tie), Mrs Unni, Sriram, Shuba, Mrs Benz, self, Mrs Smita, Gen Prakash, Col Benz & Col Om Pawar. Tagra Raho

[29/09, 01:23] Col GKS REDDY: Tagra Raho Sir,

I have some anecdotes, written in my old note book, which were narrated by my seniors and some which happened with me during my service.

Not sure whether they will be of some value to you or not.

I will send them to you all the same.

I forwarded these anecdotes to the col of the regt some time back when he was planning to compile and publish a book.

[29/09, 01:30] Col GKS REDDY: 2. While 6 Assam was in Raipur, old Akhnoor road, Jammu from 1975 to 1978, we used to have Annual FD Firing at Ismailpur Ranges near Bari Brahmana.

During one such FD Firing, after the Firing for the day was Completed, Late Lt Col Rai Singh, then a Capt, went into the ranges for Shikar.

By evening, he came back with a Wild goat, which was cut and distributed in equal quantities to all companies. We enjoyed the wild goat meat in Offrs Mess as well.

The next day the villagers came looking for their missing Saand (Male goat for breeding). Capt Rai Singh immediately took precautionary measures to get all the parts like skin and Head buried.

Since the villagers were enquiring with the Jawans, Capt Rai Singh told them to say that he shot a Deer the previous day.

When they came to the Field Offrs Mess, the Mess waiter Vihito Angami told them – Lagta Hain Saab ne Bakra Mara, lekin Capt Saab bolta Hain Woh Hiran Hain. Phir Hiran hi Hoga.

We had a rough time passifying and compensating the villagers.

[29/09, 01:30] Col GKS REDDY: Message from Col GKS Reddy, 6 Assam and Ex – CO 12 Assam

1. We had Sub Gnula Mhar in 6 Assam. After Recruit Training, he was allotted to 6 Assam and retained in Centre Football team.

He reported to the unit for the first time at Meerut in 1979, as a Substantive Subedar.

Unit went for a Bde level Exercise at Gangadhar Ranges. Lt Gen Ranbir, who was then Commanding 32 Inf Bde was to visit the unit. He was very fond of hearing the Pl CDRs briefing.

All pl CDRs including Sub Gnula Mhar were made to practice the briefing by my Coy CDR then Maj Narayan Thapa. Since Sub Gnula Mhar was not very confident, I as the company Officer made him practice for some more time after the Coy CDR left.

On the day of CDRs visit, things were okay till it came to the turn of Sub Gnula Mhar. He smartly saluted the CDR and asked for permission to start. After saying ‘Samne Dekh’, he couldn’t move any further. After about half a minute or so, he again saluted the CDR and told him – Tagra Raho Shriman, Mushe yeh Gaana Nahi aata.

[29/09, 01:33] Col GKS REDDY: 3. When 6 Assam was in Binaguri, annual FD Firing camps used to be conducted at Teesta FD Firing Ranges near Bagrakote.

During one such camp, GOC 20 Div was to visit the camp.

Fire and Move of two coys up in assault formation moving from FUP to obj 500 mtrs away was practiced the previous day.

On the day of GOC visit, both forward coys were issued 100 rounds each and standing in extended line at the FUP, waiting for GOC’s arr. CO was waiting at the entry of the Ranges to receive the GOC.

Suddenly all hell broke loose at the FUP, when a deer came running from the left and the Rhinos instinctively opened fire.

In spite of about 100 plus boys firing, the deer effortlessly floated from left to right and disappeared into the ranges.

Adjt and the coy CDRs had a rough time, bringing up the rear coys, just in time before GOC’s arr. And the visit went off well.

[29/09, 01:39] Col GKS REDDY: 4. I remember another incident at Raipur, Jammu, when 6 Assam moved to Meerut sometime in Jun 1978 and I was left behind as OC Rear along with about 40 boys to hand over the balance equipment especially MT to 10 Mahar, the relieving unit.

MT park area was kept by us and our boys were staying in the MT park itself.

One day SEP Hokuga Sema, a short Naga driver was bathing at Adm Coy bathing point. A burly and tall khalsa from 10 Mahar, asked Hokuga Sema to get aside, as the bathing point has been handed over to them.

When he refused to move out from the bathing point, the khalsa physically lifted Hokuga Sema and put him aside and started bathing.

Hokuga went back to MT park, picked up his dah and ran back to bathing point to sort out the khalsa.

It was a sight to see a pidly Naga chasing the Burly khalsa with a Dah through the Adm coy lines and the khalsa running for his life.

The chase came to an end on seeing Brig Surinder Singh of Kargil fame, who was then QM 10 Mahar as a Capt.

[29/09, 01:39] Col GKS REDDY: 5. This incident was told to me by my Coy Cdr, Maj Gurdev Singh Padda, who was Adm coy Cdr in Meerut and I was the MTO.

The incident pertains to 1969 or 1970, when the unit was in Ramgarh.

Unit had gone for a short Def Excercise. Then Maj MS Behl was offg CO, as Col DB Mal got posted out without relief. Maj Jag Mohan was offg 2 i/c, Maj Hatwal was D Coy Cdr and 2 Lt Gurdev Singh Padda of SS-7 was IO.

During the day, the depl of the Bn, right up to Rif Trenches were discussed and marking Completed. The digging of the trenches commenced after last light.

At about 0100h or so, when the Offg CO was taking rest, Maj Jag Mohan offg 2 i/c decided to go for a round of the defences along with the IO.

After going around all the Company defences and bullying them for unsatisfactory progress of the digging, they stopped in D Coy Def Loc for a break and soon Maj Jag Mohan started snoring.

Maj Hatwal, D Coy Cdr, who was checking his coy Def’s, suddenly heard the snoring in his Coy, got furious – saying – Bha……, Abhi Abhi 2i/c Saab ne thik digging Karne Ka batake Gaya, and gave a solid kick on the backside of the person snoring.

To his horror, he realised that he just kicked the 2 I/c and profusely apologised to him.

The way it was narrated by Maj Gurdev Singh Padda was very humorous.

[29/09, 01:50] Col GKS REDDY: 6. When I joined 6 Assam in Jammu, I used to hear lot of anecdotes from my seniors. One such anecdote was

We had an offr, Capt BK Ghosh, QM, popularly known as Kalu Ghosh in the unit as he was of dark complexion. He was very fond of using cosmetics like talcum powder, various creams like Nevea etc.

Late Maj NM Pradhan, who was also staying in Bachelors tented colony used to go to Capt Ghosh’s tent after he left for office and use his cosmetics.

One day Capt Ghosh realised that his cosmetics were disappearing faster than they normally should.

So, before going to office, he instructed his Naga helper to catch any body who enters the tent for using the cosmetics.

As usual Maj Pradhan entered the tent as soon as Capt Ghosh left for office.

The Naga boy who was waiting in Ambush nearby, came and stood at the entrance of the tent with the Dah in his hand.

When Maj Pradhan tried to leave the tent after using the cosmetics, the boy blocked his way and threatened to chop him with the Dah, if he tries to force his way, as his Capt Saab ordered him to catch anyone who enters the tent.

Maj Pradhan was forced to stay in the tent till Capt Ghosh came back from the office for lunch.

[29/09, 01:56] Col GKS REDDY: 7. While 6 Assam was in Meerut, I got married and my wife joined me a month or so after the marriage.

Sep Santi Ao was my helper. One day Sep Santi Ao didn’t turn up in the morning. A little later, another boy came to prepare my uniform and told me that Sep Santi Ao met with a cycle accident, while coming to my house.

After reaching the office, I went to coy lines to look up Santi Ao. He was okay except for a swollen ankle, due to sprain.

I asked him as to how he fell down. He said – Saab my cycle per aapka Ghar aaraha tha. Hawa Aaya aur achanak Mera ankh mein Zamin ghus Gaya aur main gir Gaya.

[29/09, 02:00] Col GKS REDDY: 8. As narrated in the offrs mess by the seniors

While 6 Assam was in Binaguri, a Bde level Exercise was being conducted probably in Teesta Ranges (I can’t recollect the exact place, then narrated).

GOC 20 Div was visiting the units in the exercise area. It was evening by the time GOC Completed the round of 6 Assam defs.

Since it was late evening, the CO requested the GOC to have a drink in the FD Mess.

As the GOC was enjoying his drink in the mess, probably a Naga or a Mizo boy barged into the mess, carrying a Bamboo in one hand and a Dah in the other.

He walked straight to the GOC and ordered the GOC to – Khade Hojao saab. Before the GOC and other offrs could recover from the shock, the boy marked the height of the GOC on the bamboo and disappeared.

It subsequently transpired that, the Sub Maj in his own wisdom tasked the boy to make a Bamboo bed for the GOC, should he decide to stay for the night after dinner. And the boy went to measure the height of GOC to ensure correct size of the bed.

[29/09, 02:00] Col GKS REDDY: 9. While in Jammu from 1975 to 1978, 6 Assam was under 100% tented accommodation.

Store tents were used for offrs mess, JCO mess and CO residence. And EPIP tents for CO, 2 i/c and other main offices.

CO Lt Col BS Bhalla used to be very fond of the beautiful flower bed in front of his EPIP Tented office.

Late Col Choturam Ahlawat of SS – 8, was then a Capt, referred by his seniors as just – CHOTU, a misleading name, as he was 6 ft plus, approx 2 1/2 ft wide with a matching moustache.

His shoe size was 13, an abnormal size. He used to get his shoes made on order from a factory in Kanpur.

One day Col Bhalla asked for Capt Chotu to meet him in his office. When he reached there, he found the CO standing outside his office.

Without realising, Capt Chotu walked through the flower bed and saluted the CO. Horrified, Col Bhalla shouted – Chotu you have ruined my flower bed.

Capt Chotu apologised to him and instinctively moved back through the flower bed again. Col Bhalla could do nothing but to hold his head in exasperation.

[29/09, 02:04] Col GKS REDDY: 10. While in Jammu, the Op area of 6 Assam was on DCB at Khaur near Ramgarh.

Two coys were depl on the main DCB, Alfa Coy was depl as Screen at a place known as Jerara (If I am not wrong), about a KM ahead of the DCB. And the fourth coy was depl in Depth. I, as the IO was located in Tac HQ on the DCB.

During Bde Ex on DCB, Col BS Bhalla was taking all OK report from the Coy Cdrs. Since he couldn’t get through to screen coy Cdr Maj DS Rai on line and Radio Comn was prohibited, Sig pl lineman L/Nk T Lunkhopao Simte was sent to check the line to screen coy.

After about half an hour or so, there was a ring and when I picked up, it was Lunkhopao on the line and informed me that the line was broken by a tractor driver, while ploughing the field

Col Bhalla took the phone from me and asked Lunkhopao – kya us Aadmi ko pakra hain. Lunkhopao promptly replied – Saab Woh Aadmi Nahi Hain Saldalji Hain.

Col Bhalla lost his shirt and shouted – Saldalji Ka baccha, kaam Pura Karke Tac HQ mein report Karo.

[29/09, 02:06] Col GKS REDDY: 11. Preparations were in full swing for the Raising Day Celebrations 1977 at Jammu

Sub Vumkosat Misao of Delta Coy was incharge of erection of stage for cultural program including Raising Day Rhino.

On the final dress rehearsal day, when JCO and OR families were attending, there was a furore, as the Raising Day Rhino had a huge tool fixed underneath.

It subsequently transpired that, while checking the arrangements the day before, Col GD Raj, who was then Commanding D Coy probably felt the Rhino was not looking strong enough.

So, he asked Sub Vumkosat to make a Maradwala Rhino (Meaning tagra Rhino). But Sub Vumkosat understood it otherwise.

[29/09, 02:09] Col GKS REDDY: 12. Col Baldev Singh Bhalla, CO used to be very fond of driving his Willy’s Jeep at very high speeds through the busy roads of Jammu, in fact it was very scary to sit in his vehicle. But I had no option, as I was his IO.

His driver was L/Nk Sabliana Lushai, a short, fair looking Mizo with Chubby cheeks. Known in MT pl as Glasgow Baby, a good and cautious driver.

One day we were going to Op area, CO, self, Sabliana and Sub Tankeshwar Deka, the SA

As usual, Col Bhalla was driving the Jeep at 90 to 95 Kms speed, on Jammu Pathankot highway and it was quite scary.

After completing the work in Op area, we came back to the highway and stopped at a Dhaba to clean ourselves of the dust and sweat.

As soon as we came out of the Dhaba, Sabliana surprised us by jumping into the Driver’s seat and refusing to Budge even at threats by CO and the SA, telling the CO – Aap bahut Dar Khilata Hain, main drive karunga.

Col Bhalla very reluctantly sat in the co driver’s seat, as by then a number of people gathered to see the Tamasha. No prizes for guessing the consequences for Sabliana.

[29/09, 02:11] Col GKS REDDY: 13. I was on Pre- YO course attachment with ARC, immediately after my commission in June 1975. I was allotted to C Trg Coy, being commanded by Col RV Subrahmanyam, then a Major.

A fresh Recruit Training batch was being formed up and recruits were trickling in from different states of NE.

One day I was sitting in the offrs mess, when I received a message from my Coy Cdr, to receive a batch of recruits who landed up from Mizoram

I went to the Coy and found a group of 05 or 06 young Mizo boys. Tasked the CHM to send them to the barber shop and take them for lunch thereafter.

Then went to coy dining hall to tell the langar cdr to ensure sufficient food for Six boys.

After an hour or so, I went back to the dining hall to ensure that the boys get proper food, as it was past lunch time.

When I reached there, I found the boys sitting with empty plates and the cook who bought Dal and sabji was asking them as to where are the Rotis. One of the boys told him, Hindi Nahin.

On being told that the Rotis were missing by the time, he got the Dal and sabji from the cookhouse, I asked the cook to get some more Rotis, as they may have eaten them.

When they saw the cook bringing the Rotis, suddenly their faces brightened up and they pulled out the previous Rotis from underneath their bottoms. They were actually sitting on the Rotis.

[29/09, 02:14] Col GKS REDDY: 14. Incident as narrated to me by my Coy Cdr Late Maj Gurdev Singh Padda.

6 Assam, as part of 165 Bde had moved to Gen area Balurghat, just before 71 war. Brig Pannu was the Commander.

2/Lt Choturam Ahlawat (popularly known as Chotu) was attached to Bde HQ and he was accompanying the Cdr, as his personal staff offr.

One day, Brig Pannu went round the units and after lunch, he told Chotu – Chotu, I will have a Siesta and retired to his room.

2/Lt Chotu was in a predicament. He went to the unit, which was located nearby and asked Lt Gurdev Singh Padda, as to from where he can obtain Siesta for the Cdr.

Lt Gurdev, decided to pull his leg and asked him to look in the medical shops.

After going around a number of Medical shops for more than an hour, he very reluctantly went back to inform the Cdr, that he couldn’t get Siesta anywhere, in spite of best efforts.

On hearing it, Cdr gave a broad smile.

[29/09, 02:16] Col GKS REDDY: 15. As narrated by the seniors in Offrs Mess.

While in Ramgarh, 6 Assam had gone for a Def Ex. Orders were to just mark the trenches and not to cause damage to the agricultural lands by digging.

One of the Coys was depl about 100 mtrs behind a Sugarcane field. Since there were no landmarks in front, the Sec Cdrs marked their areas of responsibility with coloured flags for briefing.

Bde cdr, while going round the defs, saw a Tribal NCO standing behind his Sec, without any flags in front.

Out of curiosity, cdr asked the NCO to indicate his area of responsibility. The NCO started by saying – Saamne Dekh, keth Ka beech mein ek ganna Ka ped, aam rukh. Tora baen Dekh, 3 degree, 150 Gaz, dusra ganna Ka ped.

At this cdr got irritated and shouted – kya ganna Ka ped bolte rahta Hain. The NCO very calmly told the CDR – Kyon gussa hota Hain saab. Nahi dekha Hain to, sikhlai Ka mutabiq – Not Seen bolo na.

[29/09, 02:18] Col GKS REDDY: 16. 6 Assam moved from Meerut to Chumathang in Ladhah in 1981. Col Gurdip was the CO.

One day, while going round the unit lines, he caught his RP NCO, Nk Kesang Wangchoo, a Bhutia from Tawang in a compromising position with a local girl from the village.

When the CO slapped the NCO, the girl was furious, came between Kesang and CO and asked why he was hitting Kesang, when they are in love with each other.

Thereupon, Col Gurdip became the Dharma Pita of Kesang Wangchoo, spoke to her parents and got them married in unit lines as per Buddhist rites. And the NCO was given permission for outliving. The girl accompanied the unit to Lucknow.

[29/09, 02:20] Col GKS REDDY: 17. While in Chumathang, I was Commanding A Coy, which was located in Loma Garrison, as Bde screen coy.

Coy less 2 pls was depl in Loma. One pl was depl at Loma Ferry and the third pl was depl at Tara post, about 6 Kms away from the Coy, guarding the Rezang La pass of 1962 fame.

During the winter of 1982, the snow fall was quite heavy and Tara post was cut off from rest of the coy.

Col Gurdip came to visit the Coy. After going round Loma and Loma Ferry Def’s, he was hell bent on visiting Tara post.

Though the snow had slightly hardened, we had to drive the Jonga in 4 by 4 First Gear. We reached the post with great difficulty.

We were received by Sub Chiku Lakher, pl cdr at Chaga Village, just below the post and we walked up.

On reaching the post, Col Gurdip was furious, when he came to know that, during heavy snow fall, the boys burnt 07 MES wooden charpoys to keep themselves warm, as there was shortage of K oil.

Sub Chiku Lakher asked the CO, Kyon gussa hota Hain saab, Jawanon Ka Chutad garam rakhna to Hain.

[29/09, 02:23] Col GKS REDDY: 18. Since 12 Assam was a Mixed unit, CO made a local rule that, No Coy Cdr will comd his own Regt tps.

So, Col RBS Anand, who bought the Jak Rif Coy (Dogra Group), was posted as Alfa Coy Cdr (NE Group).

Unit which was located in Gacham, moved out for, Attack in Mountains Ex. During the Ex, rear JCO of A Coy informed the coy Cdr, that 04 SLRs were missing from the Coy Kote.

Maj Anand was in a flap and informed the CO about it. Col JS Antal, who was used to such shocks, very calmly asked Maj Anand to go to the rear and sort out the problem.

After 2 days of checking All the documents and enquiring with various people, he realised that, the 04 SLRs were with the GOCs Guard.

The Kote NCO noted down on a separate paper, forgot to enter in Kote Register and went on leave.

[29/09, 02:25] Col GKS REDDY: 19. During Op Falcon, when 12 Assam was depl in Lungrola, I was Commanding C Coy (Garh Group) depl on Jaya Fort.

Maj Gen Dutt, GOC 5 Div, just took over from Maj Gen JM Singh and visiting the forward defs for familiarisation.

One day I got the message from BN HQ, that GOC would be visiting my coy, the next day.

On the day of the visit, I checked all the bunkers and went to Coy HQ loc to receive the GOC.

As I was standing there with my Senior JCO, GOCs Riding mule appeared on the horizon followed by Brig Bhupi Malik CDR, Col JS Antal CO, Col JAT Varma Col GS (later Lt Gen and Eastern Army CDR) and finally Maj Goswamy Mule coy Cdr, all on foot.

When they neared my loc, it was quite amusing to see GOCs Flag on the Mule’s head, 02 stars on the forehead and 2 stars on the Rear.

[29/09, 02:27] Col GKS REDDY: 20. During Op Falcon, 12 Assam was ordered to move up from Gacham to Lungrola immediately without acclamatisation, to deny Lungrola and the spurs emanating from the ridge towards Sumdo Rong to the enemy.

Nearest Roadhead was Sungetsar, about 10 Kms from Lungrola. We had to manpack and carry All the loads like rations, ammunition and Def stores from Sungetsar to Lungrola.

Finally a coy of GS mules were allotted to the unit, but the Euphoria was short-lived. After the first snowfall in Oct, Sungetsar slope became very slippery. Two mules slipped and rolled down to Sungetsar lake with in a span of one week and had to be shot.

The mule coy was immediately withdrawn and it came back to good old manpack.

A few days after that, CO along with some offrs was walking down from Sungetsar to Lungrola and we came across a group of Thambi boys having their lunch at Takshem Gompa.

When they saw us, they all wished the CO, except one Thambi SEP Bhoominathan who was quietly having his lunch. CO noticed it and asked – kya huwa Bhoominathan, Tagra Nahi Hain?

He replied – Tagra to Hain saab, Lekin kya Hain, fauj ne hamko khacchar se bhi downgrade Kar Diya.

[29/09, 02:29] Col GKS REDDY: 21. 12 Assam was celebrating Raising Day at Gacham in Feb 1986.

Guests were invited from all the local units incl MH Tenga.

On the day of the Raising Day party, various responsibilities were assigned to all the offrs.

Col AK Rai, then OC HQ coy was given the responsibility to receive the guests at the entry gate.

As the MNS Offrs, lead by their Matron arrived, Maj AK Rai wished her Tagra Raho. Matron, who was a little obese created a Scene by refusing to enter the unit, as she felt that, Maj Rai tried to make fun of her overweight, by telling her to – Tagra Raho.

It took some time to convince her that, it was our Regtl salutation and nothing to do with her overweight.

[29/09, 02:30] Col GKS REDDY: 22. 12 Assam just moved to Kota in the summer of 1988 and was in the process of settling down.

There was confusion in implementing of Bn orders on one or two occasions, due to the Coy line orderlies especially Kappus and Thambis getting confused with the names of the offrs.

We had Maj AK Rai, Capt AK Roy, Capt SN Rai and Lt SR Roy in the unit.

One day, the line orderlies were waiting outside SAs office for the orders. SEP Jagat Reddy, who recently changed from Adjt Office runner to SP Coy line orderly was overheard commenting – Pata Nahin fauj Kaha Kaha se ek hi naam Ka offrs ko ikatha Kiya Hain, hamara Jaan Kane ke liye.

[29/09, 02:36] Col GKS REDDY: 23. 6 Assam was in Jammu, on old Akhnoor Road. Late Col SAM Gatphoh, was one of the Coy Cdrs and was staying with family.

One day, he organised a party in the offrs mess and invited all unit offrs and Bde Cdr and staff with families.

After lots of dancing and drinks, finally Dinner was laid out. As the ladies were having their food, Mrs Gatphoh was going around looking after the Guests.

Probably she noticed some ladies with very less food in their plates. So suddenly she said – Khav Khav, khub Khav, Sharam bhi Nahi, Apna hi Gorh.

There was total silence for a few seconds, till some Rhino officers started laughing.

[29/09, 02:38] Col GKS REDDY: 24. On completion of Raising, 12 Assam moved from Shillong to Gacham in Arunachal Pradesh.

Since the unit was of Mixed Class composition, the immediate challenge was to integrate the troops of all the four groups, develop comraderie, esprit de corps and team spirit.

The challenge was more pronounced in SP Coy, which comprised of 25% troops from each Group.

Col AK Rai, who was then Commanding SP Coy, used to hold long conferences of JCOs and NCOs to drive in, the need for integration and development of team spirit and esprit de corps.

One day, he was bullying his Pioneer JCO, Late Sub Lalmona Lushai, for not completing a given task on time.

After some time, Sub Lalmona tells him – Tagra Raho Saab, main, ya to Aap Ka conference attend Kar Sakta Hun ya Company Ka kaam Kar Sakta Hun. Donon kaam ikatha Karna Mera bas Ka baat Nahi.

[29/09, 02:41] Col GKS REDDY: 25. As narrated by Col VS Sharawat, 12 Assam Regt.

Unit was in Delhi and I was performing the duties of both Adjutant and Offg Mess Secy. I tasked Lt Tarun Raj Kumar, a Manipuri youngster to organise dinner function in the Offrs Mess.

At around 2 PM, he phoned me, to come and check the arrangements. On reaching he greeted me and asked the barman – Saab ke liye beer lao.

I said beer toh theek hai…first show me what you have done. To which he promptly replied…”Sir Mess walon ne aesi ki teisi kar di !!”.

On going around I found all arngs were done elaborately, infact better than the previous set up.

While having beer with him….I realised that, what he wanted to convey was….” Sir jaise pehle org kiya tha…waise hi arngs kiya hai”. Manipuri Hindi problem!!!

[29/09, 03:20] Col GKS REDDY: 26. I took my unit 12 Assam from Nasirabad to Tangdhar Kupwara District in 1996 and deployed in Richmar Salient.

Col MB Pun, then a Major, reported back to us from NSG. I sent him to Charlie Coy (Garhwalis), deployed in High Altitude area about 04 hours from the road head.

I went to visit the company. After visiting all the platoons spent the night in the company and started back for the BN HQ next morning. Maj Pun was accompanying me till his lower pl.

As we were coming down, we saw an NCO briefing his party, who were to go down to the BN HQ. Maj Pun stopped to brief the party about safety in handling personal weapons, as there had been number of accidental firing in the Bde sect.

I went about 10 yards and stopped for him. He was briefing them about correct Bhar and Khalikar drill. After doing Khalikar, he pointed the barrel towards the ground and pressed the trigger. There was a boom and he almost shot into his foot.

Thereafter, I used to always pull his leg, asking him to give a safety demo to the BN.

COL. BK NAIR (Retd.)

[ 5 ASSAM , 9 ASSAM, ARC, 9KAR Bn NCC, 5 Guj Bn NCC, Gp Cdr NCC Amritsar, 4CTC, NCC Chidambaram, I KER Arty Bty NCC Thalassery]

1. Immediately after the Chinese aggression, I joined the Indian Airforce as a technician. During my career with IAF I worked with 27 Sqn [Hunter Aircraft], 37 Sqn [Hunter] and 108 Sqn [Su- 7] . Got selected to the Army through SSB Jabalpur. Reported OTA Chennai on 1 nov 1969. Got commissioned into 5 ASSAM REGT on 6 sep 1970 and joined the unit at Hyderabad. C.O. was Lt. Col A.S.Malhi. Bn moved to Akhnoor under 10 Inf Div and from there to CHHAMB in oct 1971. I became BOKAN post [screen posn] cdr. Bokan post was situated right on the CFL. The action of the BOKAN post is already given in the Regtl history so i am not going into it. one thing which is not mentioned in the Regtl history, i would like to state and that is, on 2nd dec evening Capt Roshan lal Arty OP along with his team reported to me. This was a big morale booster. On 3 dec night and 4th dec day we were able to carry out pin point accurate firing on the advancing Pakistani troops. 3rd dec night was a beautiful moonlight night, and from the BOKAN post we had a very good obsn.

2. On the evening of the 4th I was ordered to withdraw to the Bn Hq. By then my post was surrounded by Pak troops. The post on my right [MOEL 5 SIKH] and the post on my left [ DULLA 5 ASSAM ] and PAUR post [ B Coy 5ASSAM] which was behind me, all had fallen to the PAK Army. I had 3 casualties due to enemy shelling[one was serious]. Total there were 36 persons including ARTY elements. We infiltrated through the enemy lines and reached Bn Hq by about 2230hrs safe and sound.

3. From 1970 to 1978 I served with 5ASSAM and the COs were Brig Cheema and Gen PK Puri. I had a wonderful tenure with 5 ASSAM. Thereafter I moved to 47 Inf Bde as staff capt. After that i was posted to new raising 9 ASSAM. Gen Mukharjee was the CO. Also served under two more COs Col Lawate and Col Ganguly.

4. During this period I became a permanent med cat [IHD} and was posted to the centre. I had a tenure of 3 1/2 years at centre and served under Gen Jasbir, Brig Lal, Brig Khimta, and Brig Shivpuri.

5. I was approved for Lt Col in 1989 and since I was in permanent med cat I was given the command of the NCC unit. I commanded two NCC units: 9 KAR Bn NCC Bangalore, and 5 GUJ Bn NCC Surat. After that I was approved for full COL and was posted as GP CDR NCC Amritsar in 1994. Had a tenure of 3 1/2 years as GP CDR, and in 1996 Amritsar Gp became the champion GP in NCC Dte Punjab,Harayana, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh. This was a big achievement, since Amritsar Gp became champion Gp after 13 years. I retired inJun 1997.

6. After retirement I was reemployed in NCC. Commanded two more NCC units, 4 TN CTC NCC Chidambaram, and 1 KER ARTY BTY NCC Thalassery which happened to be my home town. Finally retired in Jun 2003 after about 40 years of service in uniform and settled in my home town Thalassery.

Activities after retirement.

____________________

7. After retirement I formed an organisation called BREXA [ Brennen College Ex NCC Cadets Association] with the aim of carrying out social service activities. We also conduct free ARMY recruitment coaching classes. We have been able to send 1350 candidates to INDIAN ARMY so far. I am also the Patron of Kerala State Ex Service league Thalassery unit. We have about 500 members. We also carry out various social service activities. I am the Patron of Smt Maj Kamalakshi Bharatan charitable trust. Main aim of the trust is to carry out social service activities.

Family

______

8. My wife is Prabha Nair. She has been teaching in various schools wherever I was posted. I have one son and a daughter. Both joined the Army. My father was also in the Army. He served in the second world war. so it is the third generation now serving. Son got commissioned in 15 ASSAM, LT COL Sanjay Nair, SM and daughter Capt Manjula Nair in ASC. She had a five year tenure. After that she got married and is currently in the US.

Having received WhatsApp messages regarding Papa Pandey, a great leader of his times.

I remembered my innings with him. I joined BSF as desired by him. Whatever I have achieved in life is due to his blessings and grooming by Major General Ramachandran my CO – 3 Assam and Col Shishupal whose guidance as company officer is cherished by me.

Papa Pande contributed the maximum during the Liberation of Bangladesh. He was the first commander who who trained and lead ‘Mukti Bahini’ with a few selected officers /men from BSF.

His contribution is part of BSF history and is being taught till today in all basic and

in- service courses.

During the Golden Jubilee celebrations at Gwalior , I had taken some senior Rhinos to visit Papa Pandey’s office cum residence named by him : Suraksha Bhavan at Takenpur BSF Academy which is the best Paramilitary training centre in Asia having its own airstrip.

I have had the privilege of serving there as Chief Instructor, training of officers.

Regards to all .

Tagra Raho🌹

Chennai Rhinos keep dwindling in numbers !

Col & Mrs Benz Jacob are moving to Kochi after 13 wonderful years in Chennai.

So last evening Maj Gen Prakash Chandra organized the Dining Out at Palm Grove Army Officers Institute .

Though the gathering was small the banter and laughter was big time !

How can the Rhinos not but roar !

And Maj Roy lead us in renditon of Badlu Ram.

Amazing evening in these bland days !

Tagra Raho.

Selfie Self, Mrs Neha Gautam, Mrs Meena Benz, Col Benz, Mrs Smita Prakash, Maj Gen Prakash Chandra , Mrs Vaishna Roy Maj Roy and Capt Gautam.

Tagra Raho

Beta load in flash page

Abi se purana pages men kuch add nahin karna. Purana pages se print karne ke lea draft banaya hai. Islea next theen mahina ek hi flash men daalna. Blessings

Ramanan – This is the only picture his wife could provide me.

Maj JBS Makin was 22 nd course NDA and 31 IMA. passed out on 11 Dec 1962 and joined 5 Assam on 1 Jan I963 at Shillong in Sidi Birani lines.

He remained with the 5 Assam except an outing of two years as Instr cl C, Inf School( Mor Wing).

During 1971 war he was commanding Ghogi Coy in Chhamb Sector. He blunted five major attacks of the Pakistan before his coy locality was over run after hand to hand fight with the enemy. He was shot at point blank range by the enemy and died a Chhamb hero death. He was recommended for MVC gallantry award.

[9:58 am, 02/10/2021] Ramanan Sir: his morning received the photograph of Capt Rai Singh from Lt Gen Nandal which he traced it from Album. Nostalgic memories of our association with him at Tamulpur under GB 1 Sir are still vivid. TAGRA RAHO

[9:58 am, 02/10/2021] Ramanan Sir: Good old buddy. Will never forget the fateful day when he was summoned by the Almighty. Thanks Jadhav Sir

It is a great gesture. Just like to share the background of the financial aid to the NOKs of all KIA incl the ex gratia payment being given by the GOI ,MOD.

29 and half years back when I was commanding 15 A in Manipur we had 27 KIA in one of the worst ambushs of NE (No comments pl). There was no such financial help to NOKs from any qrs. We all collected ( voluntarily ) about 4.7 lakh and given to the NOKs . Kind help of Gen NS Mallik ,the Corps cdr, who was my boss at Meerut prior to my tsking over the comd of

15 A in Jun 1992 and late Gen Kishanpal , a great Rhino , the COS , we were able to give get another four lakhs or so as financial assistance to the NOKs.

After the ambush on 29 Jun1993 , when things got stabilised we took up a case for grant of ex gratia through QSIR in Jul 1993.( It goes directly to the Sectt of the VCOAS). Finally the case was sent to DG Inf on 29 Aug 1993 for onward action . They convincingly threw the case in to a dustbin for almost two years . In Aug 1995 , while pursuing the case at the Army HQ, with great difficulty I could locate the file at the DG Inf Office . A brig from Dogras hailing was so anti this case and refused to pursue the file . Had a big fight with him and had to tell him that I had lost 27 Sons and I only knew the pains. This probably touched his heart and asked me to meet him next day. To cut it short , there was a Mizo Under Secy in MOD who came to my help and promised me to do the need full . After six months when I again visited MOD the official letter for grant of ex gratia of Rs ONE LAKH to the NOK was almost out.

However , to my bad luck the NOKs of 15 KIAs of 29 Jun 1993 did not get any benefits as the date from which the provision of ex gratia was sanctioned was 29 Au1993 , the day the QSIR had reached the VCOAS office. Despite pleading I failed to get the fate changed to 29 Jun 1993.

My satisfaction was that at least the NOKs of future generations got benefited.

I got the queue to initiate the case for ex gratia from the J and k Govt . Late Gen Krishna Rao was the Governor in 1992-93 and had started sanctioning Rs two lakhs to the NOKs of K I As in J and K at that time.

The write up is not self eulogization but for the posterity to know .

May not be regimental but informative . Tagra Raho .

IC-32344M

Lt Col Deonath Singh

DOB : 26 Jan 1947

Date of Commission : 06 Sep 1970

Lt Col Deonath Singh was an extraordinarily meticulous officer with an eye for detail, who completed his Regimental service in 1988, when he was posted to Ladakh Scouts. I have seen him as a company commander and 2^nd in command in Assam. Many loved him and a few loved to hate him. He knew a great deal about rules and regulations and ensured that they were followed by all around him. As his company officer and QM, I learnt about what every soldier was authorized and that it was my duty to ensure that they got what they were authorized and also learned what EPIP and PTGP stood for.

Being a forced bachelor for most times, he used to cook Rajasthani roti and chicken for the rest of us, once a month, which was relished by the rest of us Head Hunters. He and Mrs Deonath are leading a peaceful retired life in Bikaner and their children are well settled in Australia.

Brief Service

Sep 1970 to Dec 1975 – 3 ASSAM

Jan 1976 to Feb 1978 – ARC, Shillong

Mar 1978 to Jun 1979 – 8 ASSAM

Jul 1979 to Dec 1982 – 119 GL Sec Type B

Jan 1983 to Jun 1988 – 8 ASSAM

Jul 1988 to Jun 1990 – LADAKH SCOUTS

Jul 1990 to Dec 1992 – HQ 8 Inf Bde

Jan 1993 to Jun 1995 – HQ 31 Armd Div

Jul 1995 to Jan 1998 – HQ 12 Corps

Date of Retirement : 31 Jan 1998

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