Ishar Singh facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ishar Havildar Singh
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Captain Ishar Singh
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| Born | 30 December 1896 Nainwa, Bundi State |
| Died | 2 December 1963 (aged 67) Nainwa, Bundi district, Rajasthan |
| Allegiance |  British India |
| Service/ |
 British Indian Army |
| Years of service | 1914-1945 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | 28th Punjabis |
| Battles/wars | First World War Waziristan Campaign Second World War |
Sardar Bahadur Ishar Singh (born December 30, 1895 – died December 2, 1963) was a very brave soldier. He served in the British Indian Army. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery. This award is given to soldiers who show amazing courage in battle. Ishar Singh was born in a place called Nainwa. He was the first Sikh person to ever receive the Victoria Cross.
A Hero's Bravery
Ishar Singh was 25 years old when he showed incredible courage. He was a soldier, called a sepoy, in the 28th Punjabis regiment. This happened during the Waziristan Campaign in 1921. On April 10, 1921, near a place called Haidari Kach, he performed actions that led his officer to recommend him for the Victoria Cross.
His bravery was officially recognized in a special announcement. It was published in the London Gazette on November 25, 1921.
The Battle and His Actions
During a battle, the troops protecting a convoy were attacked. Ishar Singh was in charge of a Lewis Gun, which is a type of machine gun. Early in the fight, he was badly shot in the chest. He fell next to his gun.
The fighting became very close, hand-to-hand. The British officer, Indian officer, and all the Havildars (sergeants) in his company were either killed or wounded. The enemy even managed to grab his Lewis gun.
Even though he was bleeding a lot, Ishar Singh did not give up. He called two other soldiers to help him. Together, they bravely charged the enemy. They managed to get the Lewis gun back. Despite his serious injury, he immediately started firing the gun again.
When his Jemadar (another officer) arrived, he took the gun from Ishar Singh. He ordered Ishar Singh to go back and get his wound treated.
Helping the Wounded
But Ishar Singh did not go to get his wound dressed. Instead, he went to the medical officer. He helped the medical officer by pointing out where the wounded soldiers were. He also carried water to them. He made many trips to the river and back to bring water.
At one point, the enemy was firing very heavily. Ishar Singh picked up a rifle from a wounded soldier. He helped to keep the enemy fire down. Another time, he stood in front of the medical officer. The medical officer was treating a wounded soldier. Ishar Singh used his own body to shield the medical officer.
He continued to help for over three hours. He only agreed to be taken away when he was too weak from losing so much blood. His amazing bravery and dedication to duty were truly remarkable. His actions inspired everyone who saw him.
Later Life and Awards
Ishar Singh later became a Captain in the army. He also served in the Second World War. Besides the Victoria Cross, he received another important award. It was called the Order of British India, First Class. This award also came with the special title of "Sardar Bahadur."
His Victoria Cross medal is now part of a collection owned by Lord Ashcroft.
