R.I.P. Colonel Neeraj Sood, CO 18 RR

Colonel Neeraj Sood, Commanding Officer of the Indian Army's 18 Rashtriya Rifles was killed carrying out counter insurgency operations in Kuligam in Kupwara Distt in J&K last night. His unit laid two ambushes to dominate the area; one of them led by the company commander, made contact with militants. On getting information, Col Neeraj Sood, along with his Quick Reaction Team, being the closest at the Company Operating Base, rushed to the site. In the ensuing firefight the Commanding Officer sustained a gun shot wound to his head and succumbed to his injuries. The Army is presently continuing its operation, in the area.

Colonel Neeraj Sood was commissioned into 8 Rajputana Rifles in Dec 1992, and is an alumni of National Defence Academy, having passed out with the 91 Regular Course from IMA, Dehradun. A keen sportsman, the officer had extensive counter insurgency experience. He has been an instructor at the Army's prestigious Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School at Variengte and had a high profile. The officer is survived by his wife, Priti, a house wife and an eleven year old daughter, Mishika, who is studying in class five. Rest in peace.

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