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Gazette Notification: 2 Pres 50, 26-1-50
Operation: 1948 Polo - Hyderabad
Date of Award: 31 May 1948

Citation:

Major K.P. Kurian was in command of the armoured cars of 7th Cavalry operating with 161 Infantry Brigade in 1947-48 Kashmir operations. He frequently led long range armoured patrols in heavy snow storms and on roads covered with snow up to four feet. His patrols did valuable work in gaining intelligence of enemy movements and uplifting the morale of the people of Kashmir.

On 10 February 1948, an information was received that an enemy battalion has reached the outskirts of Handwara. Major Kuriyan, with a troop of armoured cars, rushed into Handwara driving over snow-covered obliterated roads the bridges of which were stated to be incapable of taking civilian Lorries. His bold and dashing advance resulted in the enemy being checked and enabled our infantry to move into position to meet any threat. On 4 April 1948 the enemy brought Uri-Naushara road under heavy sniper fire. Major Kuriyan exposed himself to fire continuously for ten days, in order to attract the fire on to his troop and to keep the life-line of the bridge open. On 16 April 1948 during a brigade attack, he skillfully broke an enemy counter attack at Mahura with heavy casualties to the enemy. On 31 May 1948, Major Kuriyan led an armoured car squadron in the heavily-mortared Chakhothi area in order to attract fire and thereby enabling the artillery to locate and destroy the enemy. He continued to move forward and forced the enemy to engage him, thereby drawing the 3.7 Howitzer fire off4 Kumaon attacking north of the river. The Howitzer was located and destroyed by the artillery. His armoured cars were hit again and again but the bold officer kept moving forward till his task was completed.

Major K.P. Kurian proved himself to be a bold, brave and resolute leader who was fearless in action. He won admiration of all ranks.

Click here for Awardee's details