On 7 December 1971, Major Hardev Singh Grewal was commanding a company of JAT Regiment deployed in a defensive position in the Chhamb Sector in J & K. The enemy attacked and managed to get a foothold on one of his localities. He immediately launched a counter-attack and succeeded in restoring the situation, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. On 9 December, the enemy again launched concerted infantry and armour assaults. Moving in the open in utter disregard of his safety, he encouraged his men and repulsed the attacks with heavy casualties to the enemy. On 10 December, though wounded in the thigh, he continued to direct the operations. He was hit by an enemy machine gun burst as a result of which he died.

In this action, Major Grewal displayed gallantry, determination and leadership of a high order.