Meet Braveheart Air Force officer Ravinder Ahlawat
WING COMMANDER RAVINDER AHLAWAT
The President awarded Commander Ahlawat Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) on the 70th Indian Independence Day
By Puniti Pandey
Wing Commander Ravinder Ahlawat has been awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) Award for his outstanding execution of an emergency situation last year.
On 26 July 2016, Wing Commander Ravinder Ahlawat, captain of the aircraft carried a 'Range Instructional Technique'(RIT) sortie over Pokhram Range in the Mirage 2000 trainer aircraft. He was in the front cockpit. While carrying out the "Pull Up Attack" circuit at 500 feet above ground level, the aircraft was hit by a bird.
The bird-hit was so severe that it smashed the canopy perspex completely damaging the Wing Commander's helmet. The accident broke the visor of his helmet and the injuries reached his face, neck, arms, and chest. The accident resulted in severe blood flow. Ahlawat lost his consciousness and was unable to fly the aircraft.
The injuries had reduced his vision inthe left eye. With overflowingblood and bird remains all around his face, he tried to his utmost to keep the aircraft away from anearby village.
Ravinder Ahlawat had to take emergency measures quickly as the aircraft was flying at a low level.
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The damaged perspex prevented the rear pilot from gettinga proper view of the runway. However, Commander Ravinder Ahlawat displayed incredible courage and presence of mind whilemanoeuvring the plane. He successfully executed a safe landing on the nearest runway of an air base exhibiting "Service before self" motto of the Indian Air Force.
The crippling injuries and the limited vision did not restrict him from saving innumerable preciouslives on the ground.
As India celebrates it's 70th Independence day, let's take a moment to honour those faces of freedom who went unmentioned. Watch to know more. (WION)