NOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of the military. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfIn this deeply moving talk, Col. Virender Nath Thapar reflects on the meaning of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of the “Idea of India.” Sharing the story of his son, Capt. Vijyant Thapar, Vir Chakra, who laid down his life during the Kargil War at the age of 22, Col. Thapar speaks not only as a soldier but as a father. His words highlight how values of service, honor, and responsibility can be internalized and lived with conviction, even in the face of extraordinary challenges.Central to this talk is Capt. Vijyant’s “Last Letter,” a document that continues to inspire generations with its vision of bravery and compassion. Through it, we see how a young officer embodied leadership at its purest - caring for the vulnerable, dedicating himself to his men, and urging his parents and countrymen to live life fully, without fear or regret.Colonel Thapar reminds us that the legacy of such heroes is not meant to be admired from afar but carried forward in our own lives. To internalize their values, ignite the courage within us, and inspire others is the truest way to honor their sacrifice. Colonel V.N. Thapar is the father of Captain Vijayant Thapar Vir Chakra - hero and martyr of the Kargil war; who was a fourth generation army officer himself. He joined the NDA in 1959 and was commissioned in 1962 in the Maratha Light Infantry. He has seen action against the Chinese and Pakistani armies in 1965 and 1971 wars and received a COAS Commendation Card for courage in battle. He is an alumnus of the prestigious Defense Services Staff College, Wellington. He is also a PG in Administrative Law and has a diploma in Man Management. Colonel Thapar authored the book - "Vijayant at Kargil" published by Penguin India. Presently, he is a commentator on military affairs for many media channels. He is dedicated to the cause of motivating the youth for which he travels across the nation to deliver talks at universities, colleges, schools, corporate houses and social organizations. He continues to inspire a generation of Indians. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx