New Delhi: Wing Commander Deepika Misra became the first woman Air Force officer to receive a gallantry medal on Thursday.
According to an IAF spokesperson, Wing Commander Misra is a helicopter pilot who hails from Rajasthan.
Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari presented the gallantary award to Wing Commander Deepika Misra at an investiture ceremony held in New Delhi on Thursday.
Misra was conferred a Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for an act of "exceptional courage" displayed during a flood relief operation in Madhya Pradesh.
Wing Commander Misra was detailed to undertake Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations in response to flash floods in northern Madhya Pradesh in August 2021. Braving deteriorating weather, strong winds and the near sunset time, she was the first and only respondent to reach the affected area the same evening. Her efforts helped in saving 47 lives.
A total of 58 personnel received gallantry awards from the IAF chief on Thursday. (with Agency inputs)
