Flight Lieutenant Noel Thomas Lobo has been serving with an operational Squadron since June, 1970. During the period of three years, he has flown a total of 2167 hours, out of which 1325 hours have been flown on Operational missions. He has also carried out 100 landings at advanced landing grounds. On the 13th March, 1973, he was on an air dropping mission deep inside the hills. Over the dropping Zone, while he was on his second circuit, the starboard engine of his aircraft started surging. He abandoned further drops and started climbing to clear the hills to come out safely. On reaching height of 6000 ft, the engine started emitting smoke and heavy oil leak was observed. He immediately feathered the affected engine. On opening power, the port engine also started vibrating, and the aircraft started losing height. Faced with a critical emergency, he ordered the ejection of part of the load and brought the crippled aircraft safely to base executing a single engine landing. He handled the emergency with commendable skill and his timely action saved the precious lives of crew members the aircraft from further damage and other Government property.

Flight Lieutenant Noel Thomas Lobo thus displayed courage, professional skill and devotion lo duty in the best tradition of the Air Force.