Wing Commander Ivor Mario Simoes was one of the four Pratap helicopter pilots specially chosen for the Fourth Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica, 198485. Wg Cdr Simoes undertook 145 sorties in hazardous flying conditions and wind velocity exceeding 70 KMPH and was instrumental in ensuring the transportation of all the material required from the ship to construct three huts at Dakshin Gangotri and a garage at the Base Camp.

A Pratap helicopter, having suffered heavy damage, force landed on the shelf ice. This helicopter was patch­repaired over a period of 42 days under extreme cold conditions and frequent blizzards. However, there were no means of ascertaining its airworthiness other than by actually flying the repaired helicopter. Fully alive to the risks involved, this officer courageously flew out the repaired helicopter on 11 Feb 85 from the sea-shelf to the mother ship. But for his initiative, this helicopter might have been a total loss to the country.

Again, on 24 Feb 85, a naval Chetak helicopter force landed on a floating iceberg. The prompt rescue of the crew and recovery of the helicopter was once again effected once again by Wg Cdr Simoes, who flew six sorties for the purpose. It was brave action and professional skill that saved the situation. A short while after the Chetak was recovered, the iceberg began breaking up when it collided with two other floating icebergs. The landing of a Pratap helicopter on a floating iceberg is the only such record in the history of the Air Force.

For his extraordinary courage, superb flying skill and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Simoes.