Wing Commander Deepika Misra becomes first IAF woman officer to get gallantry award

New Delhi: Wing Commander Deepika Misra on Thursday became the first woman officer in the Indian Air Force to be presented a gallantry award.
According to an IAF spokesperson, Misra, a helicopter pilot hailing from Rajasthan, was conferred a Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for an act of “exceptional courage” displayed during a flood relief operation in Madhya Pradesh.
IAF chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari presented the Yudh Seva Medal and other awards to several officers and air warriors at an Investiture Ceremony held at the Air Force Auditorium in Subroto Park here.
While two IAF officers were awarded Yudh Seva Medal, 13 officers and air warriors received Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry), 13 officers Vayu Sena Medal and 30 got Vishisht Seva Medal, the spokesperson said.
Also Read Assam, Arunachal sign agreement to resolve decades-old border disputes A total of 58 people — 57 from the IAF and one from the Army — received the awards, he said.
Talking about Wing Commander Misra, he said she is the first woman officer of the Indian Air Force to get a gallantry award in the history of the IAF.