The Lawrence School, Sanawar, commemorated the birth anniversary of its distinguished alumnus, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, Param Vir Chakra, with pride and reverence. A special tribute assembly was organised at the Khetarpal Stadium, named in his honour.
Over 700 students gathered at the venue to pay homage to the hero of the 1971 Indo-Pak war. He was posthumously awarded India’s highest military decoration for his supreme sacrifice and exceptional courage.
Headmistress Ruchi Pradhan Datta commenced the event by laying a wreath at the statue of Second Lieutenant Khetarpal. School buglers played the traditional ‘Last Post’. The assembly featured inspiring Sanskrit prayers and speeches remembering the martyr’s valour and dedication to the nation.
Addressing the gathering, Headmistress Ruchi Pradhan Datta remembered the 1966 batch alumnus. She highlighted that true greatness lies in the values one holds and the courage displayed while serving the country.
She quoted his immortal words, “No, Sir, I will not abandon my tank,” adding that his legacy serves as a beacon of patriotism, bravery, and duty for the school.
The event was held alongside the school’s annual Founder’s Day celebrations. Batchmates from Second Lieutenant Khetarpal’s 1966 class also gathered at the venue to mark their Diamond Jubilee reunion.
Who Was Param Vir Chakra Arun Khetarpal
Born on October 14, 1950, in Pune, Maharashtra, Arun Khetarpal came from a distinguished military background. His father, Lieutenant Colonel M.L. Khetarpal, served in the Indian Army’s Corps of Engineers. From an early age, Khetarpal excelled in both academics and sports. He completed his schooling at The Lawrence School, Sanawar.
In June 1967, he joined the National Defence Academy (NDA) as part of the Foxtrot Squadron (NDA No. 7498/F/38). He served as the Squadron Cadet Captain for the 38th Course before completing his officer training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA).
Khetarpal was commissioned into the 17 Poona Horse regiment on June 13, 1971. Although his military career lasted six months, his legacy remains immortal.
During the 1971 Indo-Pak War, the 17 Poona Horse was attached to the 47th Infantry Brigade, holding ground in the Shakargarh sector. On December 16, 1971, the 21-year-old officer displayed supreme courage and tactical grit, single-handedly turning the tide against enemy forces.
He laid down his life for the country during the confrontation. In recognition of his heroism and devotion to duty, the Government of India posthumously conferred upon him the Param Vir Chakra on Republic Day, 1972, effective from December 16, 1971.
