Details : | Wing Commander Bhupender Singh Sehrawat, VM (24203) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 21 Dec 96. Since 22 Jul 13, he is commanding a Cheetal and Cheetah helicopter unit, located at high altitude. The Unit has the distinction of operating at helipads between 19000 ft to 23000 ft in the Siachen Glacier. He has more than 6000 hrs of accident and incident free flying. Undertaking tasks in treacherous terrain and unpredictable weather, the Unit has flown more than 6550 hrs in 14350 sorties under his command. Under his command the unit participated in Op Meghdoot, Op Rakshak, Op Megh Rahat, Op Chumar, Op Phutkal, besides undertaking numerous casualty evacuations and extending valuable support for the conduct of elections in the region. In Op Meghdoot, while operating over the most hostile and treacherous terrain in the world, Wg Cdr Sehrawat has executed more than 4100 landings at the world's highest helipads. He has displayed exceptional courage and exemplary flying skills while operating under constant threat of hostile fire and at the extremes of helicopter flight envelope in his single engine helicopter. Leading the unit from the front and setting an example under the most adverse and challenging situations in Op Meghdoot, the unit under his command has flown more than 8800 sorties in the Siachen Glacier alone. Contributing most significantly to the nation's efforts in the Op Meghdoot, he propelled his Unit towards maximization of its operational potential in the most threatening and challenging of environments. Under his Command the unit was bestowed with five gallantry awards that include one Shaurya Chakra and four Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry). These stand testimony to his leadership under extremely difficult operating conditions. In Sep 14, while dealing with incursions in the Chumar sector, Wg Cdr Sehrawat, again lead from the front and flew 55 successful missions towards air logistics, casualty evacuation, photo recce and troop induction, under constant threat of hostile fire, inclement weather, and treacherous terrain. His exceptional professionalism, incisive analysis and positive approach made it possible for many time critical operations, which involved landing over untried and unprepared sites on the steep slopes above 16000 ft. to be accomplished. Flying extensively in these arduous conditions, he evacuated four critical casualties from the forward posts besides airlifting 11520 kgs of life sustaining material. For his acts of courage, professionalism, leadership and distinguished service of a high order in hostile situations, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Yudh Seva Medal to Wing Commander Bhupender Singh Sehrawat, VM. |