Honoring the Vohra Family’s Legacy of Service on Veterans Day
PATRIARCH
Captain Jaswant Singh, 7th Light Cavalry
This Veterans Day, I pay tribute to the generations of Vohra family members who have proudly served in the armed forces—across continents, conflicts, and decades.
Our story begins with Subedar Bhagwan Singh of the 39th Garhwal Regiment, who rendered meritorious service in the 1857 uprising and the Sowat-Boner Expedition. Sowars Rattan Singh and Mool Singh of the Guides Cavalry gave their lives in Kabul in 1879, earning medals for their sacrifice.
During World War I and II, over a dozen Vohra family members were on active duty, with many more volunteering to support the war effort. My grandfather, Captain Jaswant Singh, served over 35 years in the 7th Cavalry, training soldiers and earning recognition for his distinguished service.
My late eldest uncle, Colonel Darshan Singh Vohra, dedicated his career to fitting artificial limbs for wounded soldiers, earning the Padma Shri and five national awards for his service to the handicapped. My second eldest uncle, Air Commodore Jagdish Singh Vohra, was a veteran bomber pilot who led missions during the 1971 Indo-Pak war and retired after 32 years in the Indian Air Force. My grand brother-in-law, Jit Singh Sarna, served in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps, endured captivity as a POW in Germany from 1939 to 1945, and exemplified resilience.
Most personally, I honor my father, Colonel Prithijit Singh Vohra, who joined the Indian Army in 1957 and served for 30 years. He led critical operations in the 1965 and 1971 wars, managed vast inventories, and bravely repaired ammunition under enemy fire.
From the earliest days to the present, the Vohra family’s courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to service continue to inspire us all. On this day, I salute every Vohra veteran—and all who serve.