For me, my grandfather is more than just a relative – he is an inspiration of courage, perseverance, and advocacy for himself and others. Major General Ian Cardozo worked in the Indian army for many years, fighting multiple wars, and demonstrating immense amounts of bravery and pride for his country. In 1971, during the war between India and Pakistan for the liberation of Bangladesh (or East Pakistan at the time), he stepped on a mine, causing him to lose one leg from the knee down. In an act of quick-thinking and immense willpower, he cut off his own leg using his kukri, a weapon used by Gorkhas, enabling him to survive the war. Following these events, the army were quick to label him as a “disabled individual” and unfit to continue active duty in the army. This didn’t stop him, though. He pushed himself, training hard each and every day to re-strengthen his body, until he could do everything a two-legged soldier could do – and do it better. By the time the evaluations rolled around, he was ready. He completed each test with unmatched caliber and power, overcoming his struggles and proving himself, besting the odds stacked against him. In spite of the box his superiors placed him into, he overcame his circumstances. He fought for not only his own return to the army but to help others in his situation continue serving their country, paving the way for all those “disabled” by war to fight for India. While he faced backlash from other “disabled” soldiers who wanted to use their circumstances to avoid battles, he continued to advocate for what is right.