Squadron Leader M.S. Dandekar was operating in the Walong Sector of NEFA when the Chinese hostilities started in October, 1962. During the battle of Walong contact was lost with the forward troops. It was vital to collect the news about the battle situation and to provide the necessary assistance to our forward troops. Sqn. Ldr. Dandekar volunteered to be dropped at the forward base by the helicopter. He made contact with the Brigade Commander and brought the requisite information and essential directions for the evacuation of casualties. After this trip he kept shuttling between the forward troop and rear guard and this helped in evacuation of casualties and in supplying the urgently required supplies. In those days the forward bases were changing so quickly that it was very hazardous to land at some place. With complete disregard to his personal safety and with selfless devotion to duty, he made possible the evacuation of a large number of casualties which did not hamper the planned withdrawal of the troops. He earned both the gratitude and praise of the troops. Squadron Leader Meghashyama Sadanand Dandekar has therefore rendered devoted and distinguished service of high order. |