Wing Commander Amulaya Chandra Bharali (15049) Flying (Pilot) is on the posted strength of TACDE, AF wef 16 June 97. On the evening of 22 June 98, at about 1900 hrs, the AOC, 33 Wing Air Force received SOS message from Reliance Petroleum Limited stating that they had a casualty on board at one of their barges at sea, who if not evacuated immediately was likely to succumb. The gentleman had a heart attack, which needed immediate attention. Wing Commander Amulaya Chandra Bharali of TACDE was alerted by the AOC 33 Wing Air Force because only a few days earlier he had carried out evacuation from another barge in day time in the wake of cyclone at Jamnagar. Although Wing Commander Bharali did not have experience on deck landing at night yet he immediately volunteered to undertake the task. Realising the gravity of the situation and the urgency of mission, Wing Commander Bharali quickly gathered his crew and got airborne for the mission in the shortest possible time. The sortie was undertaken in dark night condition with winds gusting to 25 Kts and more. The barge helipad was illuminated but the surrounding areas were enveloped in absolute darkness with no reference or depth perception possible. Harnessing his vast experience and professional expertise, Wing Commander Bharali executed a successful landing on the barge and evacuated the casualty thus saving his life. For his valour and professionalism in executing a hazardous task to perfection, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Amulaya Chandra Bharali. |