Vir Chakra (VrC)

During the operations against Pakistan in December 1971, Lieutenant Commander Ashok Roy was in command of a detachment of two anti-submarine and reconnaissance aircraft of the Indian Navy. On 10 December, an enemy surface force was reported at sea attempting to attack a harbour. It was essential to locate this force before it could attack. One of the two reconnaissance aircraft was sent under the command of Lieutenant Commander Roy to search the enemy force. During this search, Lieutenant Commander Roy's aircraft was spotted by an enemy jet. Although he had a chance to escape, he decided to complete his mission. Soon the enemy aircraft appeared on the scene and in the battle that ensued his aircraft was shot down.

In this action, Lieutenant Commander Roy displayed gallantry and devotion to duty of a high order.