The Battle of Daruchhian, a Saga of Valour and Sacrifice” is an account of a battle in which in a matter of less than twelve hours a total of eight officers, seven JCOs and one hundred and forty nine ORs were killed, wounded or missing. Those who survived came back with their heads held high not only for what their compatriots did but also their own contributions towards achieving the objective. But it was doomed for failure from the beginning.
Normally we do not recognise failure and the CO inevitably has to face the consequences. But this book is about the brave soldiers who fought an impossible battle.
The first part of the book deals with the problems faced by a CO and how he overcame the same. It also gives out an account of a successful raid on enemy Supply Point carried out before the main battle.
The second part is a detailed account of the battle. It also explains how men were focused during the battle, despite reverses and the enemy proving to be stronger.
The third part enumerates the problems faced by an unsuccessful Commander. The battalion had gone through a traumatic experience with loss of their compatriots. The first major problem faced by CO was how to restore confidence and self belief in the battalion.
Dealing with the unhelpful reaction of Seniors Commanders and efforts of CO to protect the name and dignity of the battalion and the men is described lucidly in the last part.
It was necessary that such a battle in which everyone surged forward for achieving the task, doing more than the call of duty demanded, was recorded. This book has achieved that. A duty that was long overdue, to the valiant men, has at last been discharged. May this inspire the future generations.
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