National Defence Academy, Pune recently immortalised a soldier who made the supreme sacrifice in the face of the enemy attack. In an emotionally charged atmosphere, his younger brother unveiled the portrait of one of the many proud alumni at "F" Squadron on the eve of the passing-out parade of the 104th course.

"No Sir, I will not abandon my tank; my gun is still working" - said this Second Lieutenant to his Commander in response to his order to abandon the burning tank. Then he set about destroying the remaining enemy tanks from his burning tank. As many as ten enemy tanks were destroyed and, of these, the young officer destroyed four all alone. The last enemy tank, which he shot, was barely 100 metre from his position. At this stage, his tank received a second hit. Showing exemplary courage and valour, the brave officer met his death but denied the enemy any breakthrough. It was 16 December, 1971 at Jarpal, Shakargarh Sector, the young soldier was in action merely six months after his commissioning into the Army.

For displaying the conspicuous gallantry in the face of the enemy, indomitable fighting spirit and tenacity of purpose, he was honoured with Param Vir Chakra, the highest wartime gallantry medal.

The young officer was none other than the Pune-born Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the son of Brig ML Khetarpal. He was born on October 14, 1950. Coming from a family with a long tradition of service in the Army, Arun when he was in school distinguished himself both in academics and sports. In 1967, he joined the National Defence Academy (NDA) and then went on to Indian Military Academy. He was commissioned into 17 Poona Horse on June 13, 1971.

Three decades later, Brig ML Khetarpal visited his native village in Pakistan. A Pakistani brigadier was his official host. They were not known to each other before. On the eve of Brig Khetarpal's departure to India, the official host said : "I have something to tell you and it concerns your son. On that fateful day, at the battle of Bade Pind, we were soldiers unknown to each other, fighting for the honour of our respective countries. Arun's courage on the battlefield was exemplary and he moved his tank with fearless courage and daring, totally unconcerned about his own safety. Tank casualties on both sides were very heavy, until finally it was just the two of us who faced each other. We both fired simultaneously. It was destined that I was to live and he had to die."

Yes, sometimes, facts are stranger than fiction!