Decorated Air Marshal PP Singh passes away

Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, August 14

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Air Marshal PP Singh, who was decorated with the Maha Vir Chakra, the second highest gallantry award during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, passed away at Command Hospital, Chandimandir, after a brief illness. He was 92. Commissioned as a Pilot Officer in the Indian Air Force on April 15, 1950, the veteran officer had an illustrious career spanning nearly 38 years. He had the privilege of serving as the ADC to the first President of India, Dr Rajender Prasad.

The start of hostilities with Pakistan in 1965 saw then Wing Commander PP Singh lead No.5 Squadron (The Tuskers) out of Agra on numerous successful night air strikes into the Pakistani territory. For his exemplary leadership and valour displayed beyond the call of duty he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra on September 6, 1965. In 1971, he was awarded the Ati Vishist Sewa Medal for distinguished services. On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal he was posted as Senior Air Staff Officer, in-charge (Operations), Eastern Air Command, Shillong. Thereafter, he served at the Air Headquarters as Vice-chief of Air Staff and awarded the Param Vishist Sewa Medal in March 1985. He was appointed as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command, in 1986 and held that position till his retirement in February 1987.