War decorated General Lehl dies

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 18

Major General Lachhman Singh Lehl (retd), a war decorated officer and a noted military historian, has breathed his last at New Delhi. He was 97.

As a Captain during the 1947-48 Jammu and Kashmir operations, he took part in the battles of Chhamb, Naushera, Jhangar, Rajauri, Uri and Zoji La. He was awarded the Vir Chakra for gallantry in recapture of Jhangar.

As the forward observation officer on Jhangar front, he directed accurate and timely artillery fire on enemy positions. Later, he successfully extricated an infantry company, which had been pinned down by the enemy, and engaged the enemy for eight hours.