Ayyappan MS, SM

Biography

Gunner Ayyappan MS hailed from Kalladikode village in the Palakkad district of Kerala. He completed his schooling at MNKMGHS Pulappatta and grew up with a deep sense of patriotism and a desire to serve in uniform. He was selected through an Army recruitment rally held in 1984 and was enrolled into the Regiment of Artillery, going on to serve with the 219 Field Regiment. In May 1986, his unit was deployed along the Saltoro Ridge in the Siachen Glacier sector as part of Operation Meghdoot, the Indian Army's high-altitude campaign to secure the world's highest battlefield. Operating at altitudes above 18,000 feet with temperatures plunging close to minus 60 degrees Celsius, the unit faced extreme weather, treacherous terrain and persistent cross-border firing from across the ridge. On 12 May 1986, while on patrol in his unit's area of responsibility, Gunner Ayyappan came under heavy enemy fire. He held his position and engaged the adversary with exemplary courage, sustaining grievous injuries during the exchange and succumbing to his wounds despite his comrades' best efforts. For his conspicuous bravery, devotion to duty and supreme sacrifice in the icy heights of Siachen, Gunner Ayyappan MS was posthumously awarded the Sena Medal.