Vir Chakra (VrC)

On 4 December 1971, Flying Officer Harish Masand was No. 3 in a three aircraft strike mission for attacking an enemy airfield. Just short of the target, the formation was intercepted by two Pakistani Sabre aircraft. In the ensuing dogfight, he shot down one Sabre aircraft. He also undertook a number of fighter reconnaissance missions in enemy territory and completed the task assigned to him.

Throughout, Flying Officer Harish Masand displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.