Flight Lieutenant Harinder Pal Singh Shergill has been on the posted strength of a fighter squadron since February, 1967. He achieved a high standard in combat flying, and was utilised to lead and train junior pilots. He stood first in the Western Air Command Gunnery Meet 1970, in the air to air phase, setting a new record by securing 98.27% hits. He also contributed towards evolving an effective combat air patrol pattern over the airfield which was put to use during the Operations in December, 1971. On 16th June, 1971, while on a ferry from Jodhpur to Poona be experienced engine failure over Poona airfield. He had the option of abandoning the aircraft. But due to thickly populated area around the airfield he chose to crash land the aircraft as ejection might have caused damage to the civilian population. He sustained serious burns as a result of this accident.

Throughout, Flight Lieutenant Harindar Pal Singh Shergill displayed courage, professional skill and devotion to duty.