On the 14th August, 1980, Flight Lieutenant Rajdeep Singh Mann was carrying out an air test on S-22 aircraft. While he was carrying out checks on the control system at a height of 6 kilometers, the aircraft suddenly pitched up with an unexpected suddenness. In this process, the pilot blacked out completely as the 'g' loading on his body went up to an incredible figure. By the time he regained his senses, the aircraft had come down to 2.8 KM above ground and was in a steep dive with speed well beyond 1000 KMPH. Flight Lieutenant Rajdeep Singh Mann immediately initiated recovery action using all his force and pulled the aircraft out of its screaming dive. The controls responded very slowly and once again his body experienced severe strain. His vision was fading and the possibility of blacking out at this extremely low altitude could not be ruled out. Eventually, his will to survive prevailed over the impossible situation. Despite intense discomfort, severe headache and pain in the spine, this young pilot remained calm and unruffled and regained full control of the aircraft which he brought back for a safe landing. This has enabled the technicians to determine the cause of malfunction an in the process many a life have been saved.

In this action, Flight Lieutenant Rajdeep Singh Mann displayed courage, strong determination, presence of mind and professional skill of a high order.

Squadron Leader Rajdeep Singh Mann was commissioned in December, 1973. He was posted to airbase imparting flying training with effect from 15 Dec 83 and remained there for two years. A keen and above-average flier, he did over 600 hours of flying during this tenure. Thereafter, he was selected on merit for conversion to Rakshak aircraft. He did his Qualified Flying Instructors' Course in December, 1983 and during his two year instructional tenure at this Academy he did over 700 hours and trained 17 cadets. As a supervisor and as a Qualified Flying Instructor his performance has been exemplary. He has worked extremely hard and has always kept the interest of the service before his own. He was the driving force in completing the training of two Pilots' Courses on schedule.

On 17 Sept 85, while on an instructional sortie with a pupil, he experienced an engine flame out 50 feet off the ground during a roller take-off. Exercising exceptional skill and using split second judgment, he landed the aircraft back safely without any damage, thus saving a valuable aircraft.

For his exemplary professional ability and for his dedication to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Squadron Leader RS Mann.