Indian Army’s Brave Mission: Recovering Fallen Heroes from Mount Kun
High Altitude Warfare School’s Courageous Effort
In July 2023, a 38-member team from the High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) of the Indian Army set out to conquer Mount Kun in Ladakh. The mission began on October 1, 2023, with hopes to reach the summit by October 13, 2023. However, on October 8, 2023, an avalanche struck at over 18,300 feet, trapping four members in a crevasse.
Operation RTG: A Rescue Mission
Despite their best efforts, the team could only recover the body of Lance Naik Stanzin Targais. Determined not to leave their comrades behind, HAWS launched Operation RTG on June 18, 2024, named after the missing soldiers—Rohit, Thakur, and Gautam. The rescue team, consisting of 88 expert mountaineers, faced immense challenges but remained resolute.
Challenges and Breakthroughs
With a base camp set up at 14,790 feet and two helicopters on standby, the team established a forward base camp on June 25, 2024. On July 4, 2024, they found the remains of Havildar Rohit Kumar. Three days later, they recovered Havildar Thakur Bahadur Ale. Finally, on July 8, 2024, they found Naik Gautam Rajbanshi, completing their mission.
Honoring the Fallen
The mortal remains were transported to their families with full military honors, bringing closure to their loved ones. This mission highlights the Indian Army’s core values of excellence, commitment, and the ethos of leaving no man behind.
