The story of Thomas C. Cherian, a soldier whose fate remained unknown for 56 years, has finally reached a poignant conclusion for his family in Kerala. His remains were discovered at the Dhaka Glacier in the Himalayas, allowing his loved ones to plan a long-awaited burial. This article delves into the journey of Cherian's family, their enduring hope, and the final resolution that brings them peace.
Background
Thomas C. Cherian, then just 22 years old, went missing after a tragic plane crash over Rohtang Pass in February 1968. The plane, which was carrying 102 Army personnel from Chandigarh to Leh, never reached its destination. For decades, his family held onto the hope that he might still be alive, despite the lack of news and the eventual declaration of death in 2003 when the wreckage was located.
The Discovery
After years of searching, it wasn't until 2024 that Cherian's remains were recovered. Alongside his body, officials found his university certificate, tucked away in his uniform pocket, confirming his identity. This emotional find offered a tangible connection to a young man whose life was tragically cut short.
Family Reflections
Mary, Cherian's only sister, shared her memories of him. "He was the second of five children, and the memories I have are limited to his brief visits home, where he would bring gifts," she reminisces. The family, especially their mother, never truly came to terms with his disappearance. “Till the day my mother died, she’d clutch a photo of my brother and say, ‘my son, my son’,” recalls Mary.
Her family believed that Cherian might have been taken captive by Pakistani forces in the early days following his disappearance, fueling their hope for his return. However, the harsh reality of the situation only became clear over the years, culminating in the eventual discovery of his remains.
Final Rites
With his remains now identified, the family is preparing for the final rites, scheduled for the afternoon of October 4, 2024. “Now we are grateful that we will be able to bury him in his homeland, in the church here,” Mary expressed, her voice filled with relief and closure. The family’s long wait for closure has finally come to an end, enabling them to honor Thomas C. Cherian’s life and sacrifice.
Conclusion
The discovery of Thomas C. Cherian's remains is not only a story of tragedy but also one of hope, resilience, and closure. His family can finally lay him to rest in the land he called home, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers in service to their country.