“The Bombay Sappers became part of our family and I gave them the PVC which will inspire the future sappers.”
Mrs Rajeshwari Rane handed back the Param Vir Chakra of her husband, Major Rama Raghoba Rane, to the Army Chief, General MM Naravane. The medal will now remain with the Bombay Sappers. Maj Rane was the first living recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military decoration. In his 21 years of service in the Indian Army, he was awarded 5 Mentioned- in- Despatches. June 26 is the birth anniversary of the brave officer.
During the Indo-Pak War of 1947-48, Major Rane (then 2/Lt) played a key role in the capture of Rajauri by Indian forces, by clearing several roadblocks and minefields, under intense enemy mortar fire. Despite being wounded and bleeding, he along with troops cleared the Naushera – Rajauri road, for the advancing Indian tanks, continuously for four days, whilst under incessant enemy fire. He was awarded the Param Vir Chakra on April 8, 1948 for courage under fire, exemplary leadership, and complete disregard for personal life.