Book excerpt: Warfare being an integral component of human civilization, nations are generally defined by the role played by their Armed Forces in shaping history. The story of the Army has neither a beginning nor an end; one has to, therefore, choose a point in time to start it. This story begins in 1914. The history of soldiers from Haryana, who have served the Indian Armed Forces through the last century, is a gripping account replete with innumerable examples of bravery, self-sacrifice and love for the country. The 'ordinary' men from this small state have played a big role in protecting national dignity. Thus, they have created values that shall not get inundated by moods of the moment due to their timeless appeal. Doughty Indian soldiers epitomize this sentiment, more than anything else. Hopefully, the coming generations would honor them by emulating their example. This focused account of the regional history of a national phenomenon will be of interest to teachers, scholars, soldiers as well as to the defence welfare policymakers.