Gee Varghese KD, KC

Biography

Naik Gee Varghese KD was born on April 4, 1967, in Pulpally, Wayanad district, Kerala, to parents Deva Sia K.J. and Smt. Mariamma. Growing up in Kerala's proud military tradition, he developed strong patriotic aspirations and enlisted in the Indian Army on January 9, 1985, joining the 14th Battalion of the Assam Regiment, a distinguished infantry regiment. On March 26, 1998, during Operation Kaziranga — a counter-insurgency operation in Assam — Naik Varghese's unit cordoned a house in Pakihaga village suspected of harboring armed insurgents. When the terrorists opened fire, Naik Varghese sustained serious injuries but refused to be evacuated. Displaying extraordinary courage and determination, despite his grievous wounds, he crawled close to a terrorist and shot him at point-blank range, killing him immediately. His selfless actions disrupted the enemy's resistance and enabled the success of the operation. He succumbed to his injuries shortly after the engagement. For his conspicuous gallantry, undying spirit, and supreme sacrifice, Naik Gee Varghese KD was posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra on January 26, 1999 — India's second-highest peacetime gallantry award.