Korean War

Honoured as a hero by South Korea, Lieutenant Colonel Dr Arcot G Rangaraj led a medical mission to during the Korean War that is remembered to this day for its bravery. For his meritorious service, he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra.

While Indian diplomats worked full time behind the scenes to get the international community on board for their peace proposals, it was the on-ground soldiers who ensured that India followed through on its promises, bringing peace in Korea.

“I was immediately struck by the (Indians’) efficiency. That small unit, adapted for an airborne role, has carried out 103 operations. which is quite outstanding for that type of unit … probably 50 of those operated (on) owed their lives to those men.”