3 Yrs After Husband’s Death, Martyred Rifleman’s Wife Joins Army As Lieutenant

We wax eloquent about the courage and perseverance of our soldiers, but credit is also due to their brave wives and family members who continue to inspire the nation with their lives. One such strong-willed and courageous woman is Neeru Sambyal, wife of martyred rifleman Ravinder Singh Sambyal.

Neeru and Ravinder Sambyal had been married for two years when news reached her and her 2-year-old daughter of Ravinder’s demise in the line of duty in 2015.

Three years on, Neeru has successfully completed her army training and has been commissioned in the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) of the Indian Army.

Speaking to Times Now, Neeru explained how her daughter inspired her to achieve this feat.

“It was really difficult to accept the reality after he was martyred. But, for me, my daughter is my inspiration.”

“I never wanted her to feel the absence of her father and wished to fill in both roles, of a father and a mother. That’s kept me motivated to complete the 49 weeks of training. I got commissioned on 8 September 2018.”

 

This speaks oodles of her grit and strength of will. She further said,

“Being in the army, one has to be mentally strong as there are times when one has to face situations where physical strength won’t matter much.”

Both her paternal and maternal sides of the family are in full support and proud of their daughter for pursuing this goal and successfully achieving it.

Neeru’s father, Darshan Singh Slathia said,

“I am very happy and proud of her achievement. I did whatever it took to support her. Her maternal family also deserves credit for the same. It was my daughter’s choice to join the army. Initially, it was a little difficult for us to accept her decision but after consultations, we decided to support her wholeheartedly. During her journey of becoming an officer, my late son-in-law’s Commanding Officer also provided great support.”

 

Speaking of the tough competition that his daughter was facing, he further spoke,

“She was competing against 26 other women during her SSB selection exam. Today, I am happy and proud that her struggles have borne fruits. What more can a parent ask for?”

Indeed, what a remarkable and inspiring story of what courage and strength really mean!

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