On a September morning in 1965, an Indian airbase in the eastern sector lay burning. Runways were cratered, aircraft wrecks smouldered, and enemy fighters were already turning back for another strike.
As two Indian jets rose to intercept, the battle dropped to treetop height. The dogfight became so close that the pilots could see each other’s faces. One attacker broke apart in mid-air. Another fled, damaged beyond use. The airbase survived.
Easy in company and unassuming in manner, he carried none of the swagger of a born legend—until the moment came when staying on meant everything.
A gallantry medal would follow. Not the highest one. But those who read the account have long wondered if this was the kind of courage for which the Param Vir Chakra was meant.
Coming soon on Fauji Tales ✈️
