Details : | Squadron Leader Vinay Bhal (28789) Accounts/ Garud is the Commanding Officer of an Indian Air Force Garud Unit since 04 Jun 2012. The IAF was called to the aid of civil power to undertake rescue and evacuation operations during OP RAHAT after a massive cloud burst resulted in extensive flooding accompanied by landslides in the state of Uttarakhand. One squad of IAF Special Force Garuds, led by Sqn Ldr Vinay Bhal were inducted to undertake search and rescue operation in the affected area. On 25 Jun 13, while on deployment a Gauchar, Uttarakhand he led a team of IAF Special Forces Garuds to locate the crash site of a MI-17 V5 helicopter. While on board the search and rescue aircraft he assisted in sighting the crash site in densely forested hilly terrain. With no landing ground. he led from the front and lowered himself close to the crash site using a cable wire. The team was then lowered after him. On reaching the crash site, he led the team to extricate the mortal remains of personnel on board the ill fated helicopter from the still smoldering site and recovered 18 bodies. Once retrieved, he supervised packing the mortal remains and transported them to winching area, using innovative methods. The entire operation lasted for three days and two nights during the course of which he operated in inhospitable terrain. inclement weather and on top of a forested hill with at a steep gradient. He led the team in an exemplary manner and maintained the team's morale and accomplished the extremely demanding mission with peril to his life. He displayed astute professionalism, dedication and bravery. For his professional competency, excellent leadership qualities, exceptional courage and selfless devotion to duty. Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) to Squadron Leader Vinay Bhal. |