In 1961,Captain Gurubachan Singh Salaria was part of a 3000-strong Indian Contingent, Deployed by the UN in Congo to end the Civil war.

On 5 th December, a company of the Gorkha Rifles established a road block at a strategic roundabout. Captain Salaria leading a platoon that sought to establish a link up with the company, encountered heavy firing from well-entrenched rebel forces. The Captain and his men charged at the enemy with bayonets, Khukris and hand grenades. In the sharp and swift operation, 40 enemy soldiers were killed and two of their armored cars destroyed. The demoralized enemy fled from the scene of the battle.

Captain Salaria, who was wounded in the neck a burst of enemy automatic fire, continued to fight till the very end. He succumbed to his injuries soon after but his gallant action had prevented the enemy from encircling the UN positions.

Captain Salaria was posthumously honoured with the Param Vir Chakra for his inspiring leadership and courage.