Vir Chakra (VrC)

Major Sarvjit Singh Ratra was an AOP officer in the Lahore Sector from 15 to 23 September 1965. To gain vital information and direct accurate fire on Pakistani tank concentrations, bridges and crossing sites over the Ichhogil Canal, he had to undertake a number of flights over enemy picquets. With great courage, he carried out these extremely dangerous missions in an unarmed aircraft. Based on his information our aircraft destroyed an important enemy bridge and thus cut off the enemy's armour exit route. He was responsible for the destruction of five enemy tanks and several vehicles. On numerous occasions, while flying low, he was fired at by enemy medium machine guns. On 17 September, he was attacked by an enemy F-86 fighter and on 21 September he was encircled by three F-86 fighters, which fired thrice; but on all those occasions he kept his composure and came back safely.

His daring performance and willingness to face grave risks were shining example to all his men.