In Nagaland, the 26th Memorial Day of Mahavir Chakra awardee (posthumous) Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse was observed today at Nerhema Phezha Village, commemorating his ultimate sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War.
Organized by the Indian Army and Assam Rifles, the ceremony began with wreath-laying and lighting of Amar Jawan Jyoti. It also featured a prayer service and screening of a short documentary on Captain Kenguruse’s gallant sacrifice.
A ceremonial march past was presented by contingents from NCC, ex-servicemen, and pipe bands of Assam Rifles and Fernbrook School.
Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse, MVC (Posthumous), stands tall among India’s valiant heroes, not just for his incredible bravery during the Kargil War, but for the enduring inspiration his sacrifice continues to offer to the youth of India—particularly those from the North-Eastern part of India. His story is one of exceptional courage, leadership, and a deep sense of responsibility that resonates powerfully with young minds seeking meaning and purpose.
Born in Nerhema village of Kohima district, Nagaland, Captain Kenguruse was a school teacher before he answered the call to serve his country. Commissioned into the Indian Army in 1998, he joined the 2 Rajputana Rifles. Within a year, during Kargil War of 1999, he would etch his name into the annals of history while serving the nation.
On the night of 28 June 1999, during an assault on a vital enemy position at 16,000 feet in the Drass sector, Captain Kenguruse volunteered to lead an attack, with a handful of highly motivated and trained Ghatak Platoon.
Faced with a steep, icy cliff and heavy enemy fire, he kicked off his boots to climb barefoot to attain better grip. Despite being critically wounded, he charged ahead, single-handedly eliminating multiple enemy soldiers before succumbing to his injuries. His heroism earned him the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award, posthumously.
