Gobind Singh Rathore

Gobind Singh Rathore (7 December 1887 – 9 December 1942) was a soldier from Damoi village in Nagaur district, Rajasthan. He served in the British Indian Army during World War I and was awarded the Victoria Cross (VC) for his bravery.

Military Career and Valor

Gobind Singh joined the Jodhpur Lancers and later became a Lance-Daffadar in the 28th Light Cavalry. He was attached to the 2nd Lancers (Gardner’s Horse) during World War I and fought in France.

On the night of 30 November to 1 December 1917, when the 2nd Lancers was surrounded by enemy forces near Épehy, France, volunteers were called to carry messages between the regiment and headquarters. Singh was chosen for the more dangerous route, which was under constant enemy fire.

Despite his horse being killed by machine-gun fire early in his journey, Singh continued on foot, dodging bullets and crawling across the battlefield to reach the brigade headquarters. He volunteered to carry a return message and made the dangerous trip again, enduring heavy fire and losing another horse. Even after being wounded and exhausted, Singh volunteered for a third mission, riding through artillery barrages until his horse was killed by a shell. He completed the journey on foot and reached safety.

For his repeated acts of courage and dedication, Singh was awarded the Victoria Cross. He received the medal from King George V at Buckingham Palace on 6 February 1918. At a special reception in his honor, he was also presented with a silver plate and a gold watch.

Later Life

After the war, Singh was promoted to Jemadar in the 28th Cavalry and served until 1934. He died on 9 December 1942 in Nagaur, Rajasthan. His Victoria Cross is displayed by his regiment, the 2nd Lancers (Gardner’s Horse), Indian Army.