Flight Lieutenant John Albert Ratnam Balraj was operating in a Fighter Reconnaissance Squadron in NEFA and NHTA area during 1961/62. He established a highly commendable fighter reconnaissance and ground attack record in operation "Raji" in spite of LMG fire from Naga hostiles. He also spotted two hostile Naga camps in that area and acted as the pathfinder aircraft.

Besides his 45 sorties in operation "Raji", he did 28 sorties in NEFA sector on reconnaissance missions. In another operation he carried out two vital reconnaissance missions around Dhola post.

Flight Lieutenant Balraj displayed courage, leadership and determination in the discharge of his duties.

Squadron Leader John Albert Ratnam Balraj the Commanding officer of an operational squadron carried out sixteen operational sorties out of which eight were low level tactical missions over enemy territory. During these missions he operated at the extreme limits of aircraft's radius of action, very often under enemy Ack. Ack. and light machine gun fire. In addition, he flew eight combat air patrols over his base, operating under difficult conditions. Squa dron Leader Balraj exhibited excellent flying sill and devotion to duty and has rendered distinguished service of a high order.