Brothers in Arms: HAWS Brings Them Home
Ladakh: In a testament to the unwavering bond of brotherhood, the elite mountaineers of the High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) embarked on a daring mission to recover their fallen comrades. This heroic operation, codenamed “Operation RTG,” exemplifies the enduring spirit of the Indian Army and its commitment to the principle of “Leave No Man Behind.”
A Tragedy Unfolds
In October 2023, a 38-member expedition from HAWS set out to conquer the treacherous Mount Kun. The unforgiving terrain and unpredictable weather of the Himalayas claimed a terrible toll. An avalanche struck the team while fixing ropes on a snow wall, burying four soldiers beneath tons of snow and ice. Despite valiant efforts, only Lance Naik Stanzin Targais could be recovered. Havildar Rohit Kumar, Havildar Thakur Bahadur Ale, and Naik Gautam Rajbanshi remained entombed in the unforgiving embrace of the mountain.
Operation RTG: A Quest for Closure
Refusing to abandon their brothers-in-arms, HAWS meticulously planned Operation RTG, named in honor of the missing soldiers. In June 2024, a team of 88 expert mountaineers embarked on this perilous mission against daunting odds. A network of camps – a road head camp, a base camp, and forward camps – were established, meticulously stocked with specialized equipment and provisions to ensure the safety and survival of the rescue party at the extreme altitude of 18,300 feet. Major General Bruce Fernandez, Commandant of HAWS, personally oversaw the operation from the base camp, while Brigadier SS Shekhawat led the search party with unwavering determination.
A Glimmer of Hope and a Nation’s Gratitude
The relentless search yielded its first breakthrough on July 4th when the mortal remains of Havildar Rohit Kumar were recovered from the icy depths of the crevasse. This success fueled the team’s resolve. Just three days later, Havildar Thakur Bahadur Ale was brought back. The search for Naik Gautam Rajbanshi continued with unwavering determination, and finally, on July 8th, the mission achieved its ultimate objective – all three soldiers were recovered. Transported home with full military honors, their return brought closure to their families who had endured a long and agonizing wait.
A Legacy of Courage and Sacrifice
Operation RTG stands as a powerful testament to the core values of HAWS and the Indian Army – excellence, unwavering commitment to comradeship, and the sacred vow to leave no soldier behind. As the nation stands in solidarity with the brave soldiers of HAWS, their extraordinary efforts serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our armed forces and the unbreakable bonds forged in the crucible of duty and honor.
