Vir Chakra (VrC)

Lieutenant vonthibettu Prabhakara Hegde put up consistent efforts from the day the Kashmir operations started till the cease-fire. He was in the thick of it right through and at all times showed the greatest determination and perseverance in carrying out the arduous and difficult flights in providing transport support for Poonch, Mendhar, Uri, Tithwal, Kargil, Dras and last, but not least, Leh. Both at Tithwal and Uri his aircraft was repeatedly hit and damaged. Considering the treacherous nature of the country and the frequent occasions when most of his transport support flights had to be carried out under adverse weather conditions, it required great powers of endurance and skill on the part of the pilot.

In carrying out his duties well, Squadron. Leader Hegde set a fine example to others to follow.