Wing Commander Bawa Guru Pratap Singh Bhalla was commissioned into the Flying Branch in Jun 63. He was first in order of merit in his course and was awarded the Sword of Honour. He has flown 5150 hours, mainly on trainer and heavy transport aircraft, of which 1170 hours were for instructional flying on the AN-12 aircraft. He was thrice commended for outstanding performance in the air. Since 1979, when due to a defect in his vision, he was transferred to the Administrative Branch, he has served as SO to DCAS, Air Headquarters, SO to AOC-in-C, EAC and as the Coord Officer, HQ Western Air Command. He has worked most diligently and for very long hours. He has ensured excellent coordination in staff activities, and displayed admirable tact and courtesy in dealing with other defence services, para-military organisations and civil authority. For his distinguished service of a very high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Bawa Guru Pratap Singh Bhalla. |