This Disabled 26/11 Navy Commando Did Something That Need To Be Remembered

November 26, 2008, known as Mumbai 26/11, is still regarded as a black day in India. It was the dark day when terrorist, backed by Pakistan, struck Mumbai and killed many innocent people in blind carnage. It was the heroism demonstrated by the Indian armed forces that brought the situation under control. Brave defense personnel cared little for their own lives as they jumped into save thousands from the gruesome terrorist attack. One such person was navy commando Praveen Teotia.

Praveen Teotia took four bullet shots during the operation to neutralize terrorists holed up in the Taj Mahal Hotel. He was hit in the lung and ears, which has partially impaired his hearing. For his bravery the former naval commando was conferred the Shaurya Chakra.

After being given a non-active duty job by the Navy, Teotia set about trying to prove that he was still fit for service, and began participating in marathons. With the aim to prove himself worthy of providing services once more, on September 9, he participated in the gruelling 72 km-long Khardung La marathon in Ladakh despite having a damaged lung. He finished well within the stipulated time, earning a medal.

On July 31, he took a voluntary retirement from his job and began practicing harder for upcoming marathons. On Saturday, he finished the Khardung La Challenge, running at altitudes higher than 18,380 ft, finishing it in 12.5 hours, well within the stipulated time of 14 hours, earning a medal. He is currently planning to fund his participation in Iron Man Triathlon as completing it perfectly within the stipulated time remains his next target.