Major Sukhpal Singhwas commanding a company of Jat Regiment during the operations against Palastan in December 1971 in the Western Sector. On 4 December, his company was assigned the task of recapturing a village occupied the previous day This position was held in strength by the enemy and dominated by the enemy located on a bund. Major Sukhpal Singh led the attack and, despite heavy small arms and, artillery fire, inspired his company to capture not only the village but also another strongly held position from where the enemy was bringing down artillery fire on his position. The enemy launched a number of counterattacks under cover of heavy artillery and medium machine gun fire. Undaunted, Major Sukhpal Singh moved from trench to trench encouraging his men and held on to the position. In this action, Major Sukhpal Singh displayed gallantry, determination and leadership of a high order.