Major Somnath Sharma defended Srinagar airfield during 1947 war
The first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra died defending Badgam from Pakistan-backed fighters in November 1947, according to India Today.
Major Somnath Sharma, commanding officer of a company from the 4th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment, died defending Badgam in Jammu and Kashmir on November 3, 1947. According to India Today, Sharma was leading approximately 100 soldiers against around 500 heavily armed militia men led by Pakistani army officers.
The fighting took place on the outskirts of Srinagar, near a vital airfield where Indian Army troops were being flown in. Major Sharma, who was recovering from a fractured arm, radioed a message to Brigade Headquarters stating he would not withdraw an inch and would fight to the last man and last round.
The engagement lasted for six hours as the enemy attacked from three sides. While Major Sharma was killed by an exploding mortar shell, his troops were supported by the Indian Air Force and successfully beat back the Pakistan-backed mujaheedeen.
The defense of Badgam prevented the invaders from reaching the Srinagar airfield and overrunning the Kashmir Valley. For his bravery, Major Sharma became the first Indian to be awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), the country's highest wartime military award.
The conflict began after Pakistani tribal fighters invaded Jammu and Kashmir on October 22, 1947. Following the invasion, Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession on October 26 to join India, leading to Indian troops being flown into Srinagar the next morning.