Pride and pain galore as Colonel Santosh Babu was laid to rest at Suryapet

Hyderabad: Eyes became moist and patriotism filled the hearts when the last post was sounded to pay homage to the fallen colonel.

'Johar Santosh Babu' echoed in the lanes and bylanes leading to the residence of the commanding officer in Suryapet district of Telangana. The crowd trickled in ever since the mortal remains of the Colonel reached his hometown on late Wednesday.

Colonel B Santosh Babu, commanding officer of 16 Bihar Unit and 19 other soldiers were killed in action during the violent face-off between India and China at the Galwan valley on June 16.

Entire Suryapet came on roads to have a last glimpse of their warrior. The army sounded the last post before the officer was laid to rest in his home town.

Colonel's father Upender Babu was inconsolable yet proud of his son. “My son was part of the peace mission in Congo and was recognized for his service. He was also part of an operation in which three militants were eliminated. He received appreciation from the Army Chief. He also completed the prestigious defence service staff course in Hyderabad. Santhosh was not an ordinary officer, he was par excellence,” he said.

Officer's wife B Santhoshi remained brave, clam and composed.