The Indian Air Force (IAF), in a statement, informed the demise of war veteran Group Captain DK Parulkar (Retd), who was held as a prisoner of the 1971 war in Pakistan.
"Gp Capt DK Parulkar (Retd) VM, VSM — 1971 War hero, who led a daring escape from captivity in Pakistan, embodying unmatched courage, ingenuity & pride in the IAF — has left for his heavenly abode. All Air Warriors of the IAF express their heartfelt condolences," mentioned the tweet from the official IAF handle.
Wing Commander Dilip Kamalkar Parulkar, who was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in March 1963, held various appointments, such as the Flying Instructor at the Air Force Academy. He has also been on deputation to Singapore for two years and even served a ground tenure as Battalion commander at the National Defence Academy (NDA).
He was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal for the valour that he showcased during the Indo-Pak conflict in 1965. According to the IAF, his aircraft was hit by enemy fire, and he had injured his right shoulder. Despite the injury and the advice to eject from his leader, he flew the crippled aircraft back to base.
What happened in the 1971 war?
The 1971 India-Pakistan war that lasted for 13 days also saw Wg Cdr DK Parulkar being held as a prisoner of war in Pakistan. He led the escape attempt from captivity along with two colleagues from the enemy camp, facing hostilities with utmost bravery. For which he was awarded the Vishisht Sena Medal from the President of India.
The IAF paid tribute, describing him as a symbol of unmatched courage and pride for the nation.
