Vir Chakra (VrC)

During the operations against Pakistan in December 1971, Squadron Leader Gursaran Singh Ahluwalia was the senior flight commander of a bomber squadron. He was largely responsible for the planning, tactics, weapon delivery system and overall supervision in the conduct of bomber operations of the unit. His planning and execution, which included leading seven missions into enemy territory and successfully completing them in spite of his aircraft being damaged on three missions due to heavy flak, acted as a source of inspiration to the air and ground crew. Throughout, Squadron Leader Ahluwalia displayed gallantry, professional skill and leadership of a high order.