Col Jojan Thomas remembered on 60th birth anniversary at Kochi memorial

Kochi: A solemn memorial service titled ‘Smrithi’ was held on Sunday at Bolgatty Palace in Kochi to commemorate the 60th birth anniversary of the late Colonel Jojan Thomas, Ashoka Chakra awardee and valiant soldier who laid down his life in the service of the nation.

The event, organised by his wife Beena Thomas along with close family members, friends, fellow officers and admirers, was a poignant reminder of the Colonel’s courage and sacrifice. Attendees paid heartfelt tributes to Col Jojan, who was killed in action on 22 August 2008 during an anti-terror operation in the Machal sector of Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir. During the operation, he single-handedly neutralised three terrorists, sacrificing his life in the process. At the time, he was the Commanding Officer of the 45 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion.

Commissioned into the Indian Army’s 11 JAT Regiment in March 1986, Col Jojan hailed from Kuttoor village in Thiruvalla, Kerala. His life of bravery and service was remembered through moving recollections, poetry, musical tributes and moments of silence.

Lt General BS Raju (Retd), who served alongside Col Jojan, reflected on their time together: “Col Jojan and I are from the same battalion. We served together in the Siachen Glacier in 1986. I have very fond memories of that time when we scaled the mountain together. He was a man of strong character and a sharp mind.”

The ceremony was attended by senior military dignitaries, former army commanders, public representatives, and members of Col Jojan’s family, including his mother, wife and children.

Major Shiju Sharif of the Kerala State Sainik Welfare Board stated that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had directed the district administration in Pathanamthitta to take immediate steps to establish a suitable memorial in honour of Col Jojan.

Indian Railways has also paid tribute to the fallen hero by featuring his name on a train operating between Lucknow and Patna.