Who is Squadron Leader A.B. Devayya - A Forgotten Hero?

 

  Squadron Leader A.B. Devayya

Not everyone possesses the courage to lay down their lives for their country. True patriotism courses through the veins of those who genuinely understand what it means to love their homeland. India has always been a land of brave hearts, and warriors who put the nation before themselves. Our history is full of stories of courage, sacrifice, patriotism. Yet, not all heroes get the recognition they deserve. One such forgotten warrior is Squadron Leader A.B. Devayya, the only Indian Air Force (IAF) officer to be posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for the 1965 Ind-Pak-war-an honor that came after long 23years.

A.B. Devayya was born in Coorg (now Kodagu, Karnataka), he was a brilliant and disciplined individual. He joined the Indian Air Force and quickly established himself as a skilled pilot. During the Indo-Pak War of 1965, Devayya was part of No.1 Squadron, known as the "Tigers," flying the Mystère IV aircraft. His courage and determination were set to etch his name in golden letters in Indian history.

On September 7, 1965, the IAF launched an air strike on the Sargodha airbase in Pakistan. Devayya was among the pilots tasked with carrying out the attack. As the Indian jets began withdrawing after completing their mission, a Pakistani F-104 Starfighhter, piloted by Flight Lieutenant Amjad Hussain, engaged in pursuit and targeted Devayya's aircraft. The F-104 was far superior to Devayya's Mystere IV, both in speed and firepower. Yet, instead of retreating, he chose to fight, although he knew that his aircraft has some technical issues and he won't be returning home. Despite suffering serious damage, he skillfully defeated the enemy aircraft, ultimately shooting it down before carshing himself. His heroic stand gave his fellow pilots a safe route back home, but he never returned.

Despite his extraordinary sacrifice, Devayya's bravery went unrecognized for over two decades. While other heroes were honored with Vir Chakra, his name faded into obscurity. His family even didn't knew about his existence or death for long 23 years. It was only in 1988, when British Author John Fricker documented the battle in his book BATTLE FOR PAKISTAN, that India finally acknowledged his heroism. Following this revelation, the Indian Government posthumously awarded him the Maha Vir Chakra-but why did it take so long?

This raises serious concerns about how the nation honors its fallen heroes. How many other warriors, who displayed similar courage, have been forgotten? Should a soldier who gave his life for the country have to wait decades for recognition? The government and armed forces must ensure the every act of bravery is acknowledged in time, so no hero's sacrifice goes unnoticed.

Though Squadron Leader A.B. Devayya is no longer with us, his story remains and inspiration for generations. His unwavering determination and sacrifice reminds us of what it truly means to serve the nation. As responsible citizens, it is our duty to remember his heroism, share his story and honor his legacy.

Let's salute this fearless warrior who fought till his last breath. His spirit will live on, reminding us that true heroes never fade away. JAI HIND!