DIMAPUR, MAY 21 (NPN): Director General of Assam Rifles (DGAR), Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, visited the Assam Rifles Battalion in Mokokchung on May 20, to review the security situation in the region and interact with local personnel.
During his visit, the Director General of Assam Rifles paid a special visit to Sungratsu village to meet 105-year-old war veteran, Havildar Mering Ao, SC (Retd)– one of the most distinguished, respected and oldest gallantry award recipients in the history of the Assam Rifles.
Born on November 15, 1920, Havildar Mering Ao served in the 3rd Battalion of the Assam Rifles, participating in key engagements during World War II, including the Battle of Kohima and the Burma campaign.
Later, in 1960, during a counter-insurgency operation in Nagaland, he displayed exemplary courage by eliminating one insurgent and injuring two others.
For his gallantry, he was awarded the Ashok Chakra Class III– later renamed the Shaurya Chakra– by the then President Dr. Rajendra Prasad on April 21, 1960.
During the visit, Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera presented a token of appreciation to the veteran, recognising his legendary service and lifelong commitment to the nation.
In a statement, the Assam Rifles described the interaction as a “deeply moving moment”, underscoring the force’s enduring ethos of honouring its heroes and preserving their legacy.
DGAR honours 105-year-old war veteran Mering Ao
