"Lion of Ladakh India" Col Chewang Rinchen

"Lion of Ladakh India" Col  Chewang Rinchen 

"Lion of Ladakh" Col Chewang Rinchen

Image Courtesy: kunzum.com

He was a highly decorated officer of Indian Army from the Ladakh region of India.

Leh Valley Ladakh India
Image (C) Dr Ajay Kumar Ojha

He was one of only six Indian service personnel to have twice won the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) - the second highest gallantry decoration.

Born in 1931 in Sumur Nubra Valley Ladakh India, he joined the Nubra Guards in 1948 at the age of 17 years only, served the Indo-Pakistan War of 1947.

He fought in Nubra Valley, promoted  through ranks and awarded Maha Vir Chakra for bravery, youngest recipient of the award.

He also served in the Indo-China 1962 War and awarded Sena Medal.

In the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, he now as Major in the Ladakh Scouts, led the capture of Chalunka complex of the Pakistan Army and the strategic outpost of Turtuk.

He retired as full Colonel in 1984.

He is called "Lion of Ladakh" for his exceptional courage, bravery and valour.

The 1400 ft long strategically located highest altitude all weather permanent bridge on Shyok river at 14,650 ft , inaugurated on 21st October 2019 is named after 'Lion of Ladakh'.

The name of "Lion of Ladakh" is Col Chewang Rinchen and the name of the bridge is "Col Chewang Rinchen Setu".