In a display of unwavering bravery and dedication, Indian Army dog ‘Kent’ valiantly laid down her life while shielding a fellow Army jawan during a counter-terrorist operation in the Narla Bambal area of Rajouri district in Jammu. This heroic act resulted in the martyrdom of one terrorist, one Army jawan, and injuries to several others in the ongoing operation.
Kent, a six-year-old canine, was a proud member of the 21 Army Dog Unit, serving with distinction in the Indian Army’s counter-insurgency unit. Throughout her four years of service, Kent had participated in numerous counter-terrorism operations, showcasing her exceptional skills and loyalty.
A senior Army official revealed that Kent played a pivotal role at the forefront of the operation. “Kent was leading a column of soldiers in pursuit of fleeing terrorists. Despite heavy hostile fire, she unflinchingly shielded her handler, ultimately sacrificing her own life, exemplifying the finest traditions of the Indian Army,” the official stated.
This poignant incident serves as a poignant reminder of the invaluable contributions made by these four-legged heroes who stand alongside their human counterparts, ready to serve and protect the nation.
Operation Details and Casualties
In the ongoing encounter, security forces successfully neutralized one terrorist while one Army jawan tragically succumbed to his injuries. Additionally, two Army jawans and one Special Police Officer from the Jammu and Kashmir Police sustained injuries during the operation.
The encounter unfolded when a combined team of the Special Operations Group of the Rajouri Police and the Indian Army converged on the Narla Bambal area, where the terrorists were hiding. Fierce gunfire exchanges ensued, with both sides engaging in intense combat.
Seized Items and Counter-Terror Efforts
During the operation, security forces discovered various items abandoned by the terrorists before their hasty retreat. Among the confiscated items were solar chargers, which the terrorists intended to use for charging their devices in the Rajouri forests.
ADG Jammu Mukesh Singh stated, “One terrorist was killed, and one Army jawan lost his life. Two Army jawans and one SPO were also injured during the operation.” This operation signifies the relentless commitment of security forces in combating terrorism in the region.
This poignant sacrifice by ‘Kent’ follows in the footsteps of another heroic Army dog, ‘Zoom,’ from the 28 Army Dog Unit, who posthumously received the Mention in Despatches award last year. Zoom bravely gave her life in Operation Tangpawa in South Kashmir’s Anantnag after sustaining two gunshot injuries on October 13th.
The indomitable spirit of these fearless canines continues to inspire and remind the nation of the selfless dedication exhibited by our armed forces and their loyal companions in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
- Indian Army dog ‘Kent’ sacrifices her life while shielding a soldier during a counter-terrorist operation in Rajouri.
- One terrorist is neutralized, while one Army jawan martyred, and several others injured in the ongoing operation.
- Kent, a six-year-old canine, was a member of the 21 Army Dog Unit and had participated in multiple counter-terrorism operations.
- Security forces recover items, including solar chargers left behind by the terrorists.
- ‘Kent’ joins the ranks of heroic Army dogs like ‘Zoom,’ who received posthumous recognition for her bravery in a previous operation.
