Vir Chakra (VrC)

During the operations against Pakistan, Wing Commander Donald Melvyn Conquest led a formation, which attacked and set fire to Karachi port bulk oil installation on 4 December 1971. The next day he carried out an attack on Mauripur airfield and destroyed six enemy aircraft on the ground and caused extensive damage to others. Again on 6 December, he attacked and destroyed the warehouses at Drigh Road airfield. In addition, he carried out a number of close air support and interdiction missions. He was instrumental in neutralising a heavy enemy armoured thrust in the Longewala Sector and in setting on fire numerous goods trains. On one occasion, he was wounded by enemy fire. Though profusely bleeding, he successfully brought his formation back to base.

Throughout the operations, Wing Commander Conquest displayed gallantry, leadership and professional skill of high order.