Vir Chakra (VrC)

On 24 August, 1988, when "OP CHECKMATE" phase I11 was being conducted by 4 Infantry Division in Mitikaikulam jungles in Sri Lanka, Wing Commander Dhirendra Nath Sahae was detailed to stand by at Mulaitivu helipad with 4 x 16.57 mm RPS in an offensive role. During a daredevil attack on the TAC HQ of 7 Brigades, the militants blew up one AOP Chetka aircraft and damaged another. They attacked the HQ with RPG and automatic weapons, thus, gravely endangering lives of GOC, IPKF Land forces, other senior Army and Air Force Officers present at that location. Wing commander Sahae was immediately asked to scramble in order to deal with the militants' threat. He was airborne and reached the area within the record time of 12 minutes. He engaged the militants and fired rockets at the area as directed by another airborne Chetak aircraft. 

He successfully neutralised the threat and ensured the safety of the TAC HQ and senior Army and Air Force Commanders at the site. Three militants were reported killed due to his timely action, and they were forced to withdraw without causing any further damage. Wing Commander Dhirendra Nath Sahae displayed exceptional professional skill, devotion to duty, and bravery of a very high order in action against the militants.