| Squadron Leader Avaneesh Kumar Upadhyay (19893) Flying (Pilot) is on the posted strength of 132 FAC Flt AF since 29 April 2003 as Flight Commander.On 02 Apr 04 Squadron Leader Upadhyay was nominated as the Task Force Commander for search and rescue (SAR) of two Jaguar aircrafts of the Indian Air Force. These fighter aircrafts had been reported missing while carrying valley flying in Sonamarg Sector near Srinagar. Squadron Leader Upadhyay displayed exceptional skill, courage and leadership in ensuring the successful conduct of the missions. He led his team from the front and carried out the first landing at the crash site unmindful of the hazardous weather, inhospitable terrain, intense cold at the dizzying heights of more than thirteen thousand feet on an unprepared snow covered and undulating hill slope. He carried out 18 gruelling missions in the face of inclement weather. It was due to his exemplary courage, skill and expertise in managing his men and machines that he was able to locate and land at the crash site, induct the ground rescue parties and evacuate the evidence and mortal remains of the Jaguar pilots. Under his guidance the team carried out total 36 missions, flying for a total of 21.45 hrs ensuring successful completion of the rescue mission against the adverse conditions of weather and hazardous terrain. For this act of exceptional courage and exemplary leadership in the face of adverse and inhospitable environment, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vayu. Sena Medal' (Gallantry) to Squadron Leader Avaneesh Kumar Upadhyay. | 
