Arun Khetarpal
Arun Khetarpal | |
|---|---|
| Born | 14 October 1950 Poona, Bombay State, India (Present-day Pune, Maharashtra) |
| Died | 16 December 1971 (aged 21) Barapind, Punjab, Pakistan |
| Allegiance | India |
| Branch | Indian Army |
| Years of service | 1971 (6 months) |
| Rank | Second Lieutenant |
| Service number | IC-25067 |
| Unit | 17th Poona Horse |
| Battles / wars | |
| Awards | Param Vir Chakra |
| Alma mater | |
Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal PVC (14 October 1950 – 16 December 1971) was an Indian army officer and a Tank commander, who is recognized as the Indian tank ace of aces, credited with 10 confirmed tank kills. A posthumous recipient of India's highest military decoration, the Param Vir Chakra, which he was awarded for his valour in face of the enemy. He was killed in action in the Battle of Basantar during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971 where his actions earned him his honour.