Major Somnath Sharma

On 3 November 1947, Major Somnath Sharma of the 4th Battalion Kumaon Regiment was deployed at Budgam to prevent Pakistani-backed raiders from capturing Srinagar airport. Despite a plastered hand from a polo injury, he refused to be relieved of command. Facing an enemy force of 700, his company of fewer than 100 men held firm. He organised the defence, directing fire and boosting morale until a mortar shell hit an ammunition dump beside him, killing him instantly. His last message over the radio was: 'The enemy is only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round.' The delay he inflicted allowed Indian reinforcements to reach Srinagar airport and save the Valley.