THE GALLANT HERO OF THE “OP NAO NAR” COLONEL JOJAN THOMAS, AC (POSTHUMOUS)

Srinagar, 03 Aug 2023. An event was organised at Zamindar Gali, Kupwara to honour
the supreme sacrifice made by Col Jojan Thomas, AC (P) in 2008 during “Op Nao Nar” in Machhal Sector.

The event was commemorated by releasing of “Comic” based on the life of Col Jojan by Mrs Beena Thomas who also graced the occasion alongwith her son. The comic showcases the saga of bravery and valour displayed by the officer which will forever resonate in the environs of Kashmir valley.
Colonel Jojan Thomas was born on 22 Jul 1965 in Kuttoor village of Thiruvalla District of Kerala. He was commissioned from the Officers Training Academy, Chennai in March 1986. Son of an army veteran Captain P.A Thomas and Aleyamma Thomas, Col Thomas was eldest among his four siblings.
He came from a family with deep military roots with his two brothers also serving in the Armed Forces. Col Jojan Thomas was commissioned in 11 JAT of the famed JAT Regiment and was sent on deputation to 45 Rashtriya Rifles in 2008 to undertake anti-terrorist operations. Before moving to 45 RR already had 20 years of experience of serving in various operational areas. He was also a trained pilot and had served with Army Aviation corps for six years. Col Thomas was a brave and committed soldier and a military leader par excellence.
On 22nd August 2008, at about 3:30 AM, Colonel Jojan Thomas, Commanding Officer of 45 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion deployed in Jammu and Kashmir established contact with a group of terrorists. Colonel Thomas immediately rushed to the area with available troops and soon a fierce firefight ensued. Leading from the front, Colonel Thomas eliminated two terrorists from close quarters. In the process he sustained severe gunshot wounds. In spite of this, he engaged the third terrorist in a fierce hand-to-hand fight before eliminating him. Colonel Jojan Thomas displayed exemplary leadership and exceptional gallantry in eliminating three hardcore terrorists and made the supreme sacrifice for the nation.
For his exemplary leadership, unparalleled courage beyond the call of duty and supreme sacrifice in the highest traditions of the Indian Army, Col Jojan Thomas, is awarded India’s highest Gallantry Award in peace time the “Ashok Chakra”. Mrs Beena Thomas, Wife of the gallant officer, received the Ashok Chakra from president Pratibha Patil on 26 January 2009.