Wing Commander Vikram Singh Ranawat was commanding one of the Helicopter Squadrons since 28 Nov 87. He was serving with the Air Force Element of the Indian Peace Keeping Force in Sri Lanka. On 04 Jan 88, Para Commandos were helilanded in a Special Heliborne Operation in the area of Mulaitivu. The officer was detailed to escort the mission in an Akbar. One team of Para Commandos encountered deadly enemy fire and asked for close air support. In spite of heavy ground fire, Wg Cdr Ranawat carried out repeated front gun and rocket attacks on enemy position with great accuracy. While carrying out attacks, he contacted a Chetak Helicopter at Mulaitivu to evacuate the casualties. The officer continued the suppressive fire keeping enemy pinned down and made it possible for the Chetak to evacuate three casualties safely. For his gallant actions in the face of enemy, the President is pleased to award Yuddh Seva Medal to Wg Cdr VS Ranawat. |