DD Correspondent
Dras, The Indian Army’s Corps of Signals motorcycle expedition, ‘Wheels of Valour: Sanchar Shakti’, reached the Kargil War Memorial at Dras on Monday, marking a significant milestone in its 11-day journey dedicated to honouring the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War.
The 20-member expedition, comprising officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), Other Ranks (ORs) and women personnel of the Corps of Signals, has travelled across the plains of North India to the challenging terrain of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, showcasing courage, endurance, discipline and teamwork.
During the expedition, the team paid tributes at several historic war memorials, including Hussainiwala, where homage was paid to Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Sukhdev and Shaheed Rajguru, and the Palampur War Memorial, where they remembered Captain Vikram Batra (PVC), Captain Saurabh Kalia and Major Sudhir Walia (Ashok Chakra).
The expedition also visited key Corps of Signals communication establishments, interacting with serving personnel and highlighting the Corps’ crucial role in ensuring secure and uninterrupted military communications. A major highlight of the journey was the Corps of Signals Dare Devils’ world record attempt inside the Atal Tunnel, Rohtang. Dedicated to Kargil Vijay Diwas, ten riders performed on just two motorcycles, covering the 9.8-km tunnel in 9 minutes and 47.97 seconds under strict safety protocols, with support from the district administration, Himachal Pradesh Police and Border Roads Organisation.
Throughout the journey, the expedition engaged with NCC cadets, students, veterans and local communities, inspiring youth to embrace patriotism, discipline and leadership while encouraging them to consider careers in the Armed Forces. At the Kargil War Memorial, the team paid floral tributes to the martyrs of Operation Vijay, reaffirming the Indian Army’s commitment to duty, honour and selfless service.
The expedition will now proceed towards Leh, Rezang La, Nyoma, Debring and Sarchu, continuing its mission of celebrating the legacy of the Indian Army and inspiring the nation’s youth through adventure, service and patriotism.