By Capt Narinder Singh
The tragic demise of Colonel (retd) Haripal Kaushik on this year's republic day bemoaned all Sikh Regimental officers and other ranks who closely knew him or heard of his deeds, conduct, sportsmanship and acts of bravery bestowing on him coveted Vir Chakra for exhibiting chivalry in army operation.
Two highly decorated seasoned senior ranking officers namely Brig Gakhal and General RS Sujlana, prolific writers hailing from prestigious Sikh Regiment have beautifully penned their memories and views on different platforms. Brig Gakhal has described the entire life of colonel glorifying his deeds, traits and qualities as a famous hockey player and as an unflinching warrior who earned Vir Chakra in operation. According to him colonel was the key figure in earning gold medals in hockey in 1956 and 1964 Olympics and had also added silver in 1960.
While playing he had also ensured gold medal for d country in Asiad 1966 During d course of assembly of regimental officers and their spouses on 27th Jan Brig Gakhal vociferously and promptuously spoke about colonel Kaushik narrating his numerous achievements in d field of hockey and as a brave young officer fetching him Vir Chakra which made the elite gathering agog by prompting the contribution of colonel. It also led to 2 minutes silence to pay real tributes.
Haripal Kaushik inaugurating sports complex -File Photo
The article by the retired Army General Sujlana under the caption "brave heart and hockey wizard, farewell published in the esteem Tribune on 28th Jan 2018 speaks volumes about the noble departed soul perhaps having no parallel in the history of army having such a legend and still presenting himself as a gentleman making him par-excellence. A rare combination of hockey stick and holding weapon.
The Defence Services department, Punjab issued an advertisement of obituary which does not qualitatively justifies the sacrifice and achievements which could have been well demonstrated by way of an article in leading media publication.
As a young regimental officer, I had the occasion to witness him playing and also got chance to practice with him in the regimental ground at Meerut in 1964-65. He had fabulous stick work and ball control A stalwart of his own time who could fit in the vacuum as right-in and left-in. A tough proposition. He was an indomitable forward.
All tributes paid to him saying final adieu makes colonel an immortal. It would be befitting tribute to the departed soul if articles written on his personality are incorporated in the educational curriculum of schools and colleges. Government can also consider naming any army public school or stadium in his cherished memory.
The tale of gallantry award winner and sports achievements are certainly likely to inspire youth who would emulate his deeds and blossom in times to come keeping the national flag aloft.
-
-
Capt Narinder Singh, ex-Army officer
xxxxxxxxxxx
Phone No. : +91-8968605010
Disclaimer : The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the writer/author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of Babushahi.com or Tirchhi Nazar Media. Babushahi.com or Tirchhi Nazar Media does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.