Lt Col Ardeshir Burzorji Tarapore, Param Vir Chakra(P), 17 Horse (Poona Horse) led his regiment into decisive battles, making the supreme sacrifice on this day 16 September in the Indo-Pak War 1965.

Lieutenant Colonel Ardeshir Burzorji Tarapore was the Commanding Officer of POONA HORSE Regiment in Sialkot sector during 1965 War.

On 11 September 1965, the Poona Horse regiment under the command of Lt Col Tarapore was assigned the task of delivering the main armored thrust for capturing Phillora in the Sialkot Sector in Pakistan.

 

As a preliminary to making a surprise attack on Phillora from the rear, the regiment was thrusting between Phillora and Chawinda when it was suddenly counterattacked by the enemy’s heavy armour from Wazirali. Tarapore held his ground and gallantly attacked Philloira with one of his squadrons supported by an infantry battalion.

 

He led his regiment to capture Wazirwali on 14 September, and Jassoran and Butur-Dograndi on 16 September 1965. Though his own tank was hit several times, he maintained his pivots at both these places and thereby helped the supporting infantry attacking Chawinda.

 

Inspired by his leadership, his regiment destroyed 60 Pakistan tanks. However, Lieutenant Colonel Tarapore's tank was hit by a shell, enveloped in flames and he died a hero's death. The valour displayed by him for six days, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Indian Army, for which he was awarded the Param Vir Chakra (Posthumous).