JNM journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
The Lion of Ladakh passed away today. Colonel Sonam Wangchuk (retired), a Kargil War veteran and Mahavir Chakra recipient of the Indian Army, breathed his last this morning after suffering a heart attack.
Colonel (then Major) Sonam Wangchuk was awarded the Mahavir Chakra for his tremendous courage and outstanding leadership during Operation Vijay (the Kargil War).
Colonel Wangchuk was a true hero of the Kargil War. He led the 4th Battalion of the Ladakh Scouts during the 1999 Kargil War. People called him the Lion of Ladakh because, after leading a unit of 40 soldiers in a high-altitude operation, he successfully repelled 136 Pakistani soldiers in a three-day battle in extremely harsh conditions, deep snow.
He played a key role in the mission, conducted at an altitude of approximately 18,000 feet, and was awarded the Mahavir Chakra for it. This mission is considered one of the Indian Army’s earliest major successes during the war.
Former Indian Army Commander Colonel Yogendra Kumar Joshi expressed deep sorrow over the news. He said, “I am deeply saddened to learn about the sudden demise of Colonel Sonam Wangchuk, Mahavir Chakra. My deepest tributes to the brave soldier. His dedication, bravery, and selfless service will always be remembered.”
Colonel Wangchuk was born on May 11, 1964, in Shankar village, Leh district, Ladakh. He served in the Army for over 30 years and retired in 2018.
