By OUR STAFF REPORRTER
Dehradun, 10 Jul: In the finest traditions of the Indian Army’s ethos of ‘Leave No Man Behind’, the mortal remains of Havildar Thakur Bahadur Ale Magar of the Fifth Battalion, the First Gorkha Rifles, were retrieved from the icy mountains of Mount Kun after nine months in a daring search and rescue operation by the teams of HAWS, Gulmarg.
Havildar Thakur Bahadur Ale Magar was part of a four-man route opening party during a mountaineering expedition to Mount Kun on 8 October, 2023, when an unexpected avalanche struck and buried them alive. A relentless search operation was carried out for days, but the body could not be retrieved due to inclement weather conditions and frequent avalanches.
Finally, on 7 July, 2024, the mortal remains of Havildar Thakur Bahadur Ale Magar, along with those of other soldiers, were retrieved by the search team. The last rites were carried out with full military honours at his unit location in Dehradun, signifying the rich traditions and ethos of the Indian Army.
Hav Thakur Bahadur Ale Magar was an avid mountaineer and had participated in national level Skiing and Snow Boarding Competitions where he won 2 Gold Medals, 1 Silver Medal and 2 Bronze Medals. He is survived by his wife, 9 year old daughter, 7 year old son and aged parents.
The Indian Army declared it stands resolute in its commitment to its soldiers and their families, ensuring that no man is left behind, and honoring the ultimate sacrifice of its brave warriors.
