Our Heroes
At Ziro Honour Run, we proudly honour the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of India’s bravest soldiers. This page is dedicated to our heroes, RFN Neelam Tebi and HAV Shere Thapa, whose stories inspire every runner, supporter, and citizen. Discover their journey, bravery, and legacy, and join us in celebrating their remarkable contributions to the nation.
RFN NEELAM TEBI
Many Arunachalee old-timers recall the 1962 Indo-China conflict with fear and anger. Most readers are not aware of the fierce battles fought by Arunachalee soldiers during the war. One such story is the bravery and sacrifice of Rifleman Neelam Tebi, a true hero of the Indian Army.
Early Life and Army Career
Rifleman Tebi was born in Deed village of Lower Subansiri district on 4 November 1941. His father was late Neelam Tath. He joined the Assam Rifles on 4 November 1958 and was assigned to the 5 Assam Rifles. At the time, very few Arunachalee youths served in the armed forces, making Tebi a pioneer.
Heroic Actions During the 1962 War
At just 22 years old, Rifleman Tebi’s platoon was deployed at the Khinzamane post, north of Tawang, during the Indo-China war. The war began on 20 October 1962 with a massive multi-directional attack by Chinese forces, including Tebi’s position. His unit initially beat back the Chinese waves of attacks, but the enemy returned with greater numbers.
Despite severe injuries, Rifleman Tebi continued to inflict heavy casualties on the advancing enemy, covering the right approach of his post with precise rifle fire. Even when a force of 300 Chinese troops attacked under a Chinese officer, he refused evacuation and fought to the last, sacrificing his life for the nation.
HAV Shere Thapa
Havildar Shere Thapa began his military career at the age of 17, enlisting in the J&K Regiment Special Force. After serving until 1956, he continued his service with the Indian Army, joining the 2 JAK RIF, a unit renowned for its valor and discipline.
Gallant Stand at the Rio Bridge – 18 November 1962
During the 1962 Sino-Indian War, on 18 November, Chinese forces launched an offensive in the Subansiri sector of Arunachal Pradesh. Havildar Thapa was part of a protective patrol near the Rio Bridge. When the patrol came under heavy attack, Thapa volunteered to cover the withdrawal of his platoon.
Utilizing his position behind rocks, he held off the advancing Chinese troops, inflicting significant casualties. His actions delayed the enemy’s progress by approximately 72 hours, allowing vital defensive preparations to be made.
Tragically, Thapa succumbed to his injuries during the battle. Reports indicate that he single-handedly gunned down 79 Chinese soldiers and injured many others.
His bravery was acknowledged by the enemy, who buried his body on the spot and erected a wooden plaque inscribed with Chinese characters praising his fighting qualities.
