Havildar Des Raj was a platoon commander in Punjab Regiment, which was occupying a screen position in an area in the Western Sector. On the night of 3 December 1971, the enemy attacked this position in strength and managed to penetrate through the forward defences. Havildar Des Raj, with complete disregard for his personal safety, came out of his bunker and engaged the enemy at point blank range. Though seriously wounded, he continued to encourage his men and kept up the fire against the enemy and was thus instrumental in repulsing the attack. 

In this action, Havildar Des Raj displayed gallantry, leadership and devotion to duty of a high order.