From flying at 19 to India's only 5-star Air Marshal: The untold story of Arjan Singh's legendary career
PTC Web Desk: In the history of the Indian Air Force, few names are remembered simply for the rank they held. Some are remembered forever for their bravery, foresight and unwavering devotion to the nation. Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh was one such legendary figure.
From leading the first flypast over the skies of independent India to commanding the Indian Air Force during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, his life stands as an inspiring story of courage, discipline and service to the nation.
In 2002, he was conferred the five-star rank of 'Marshal of the Air Force', the highest honour in the IAF. Even today, his life continues to serve as an example of courage and patriotism for the younger generation.
Five interesting facts about the five-star officer
He took to the skies at just 19
Born on April 15, 1919, in Lyallpur (now in Pakistan), Arjan Singh joined the Empire Pilot Training Course at the young age of 19. This marked the beginning of a journey that would give India one of its greatest air warriors. He earned distinction during the 1944 Burma Campaign, where he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross by Lord Mountbatten, one of the highest honours in the air force.
Leading the first flight over independent India's skies
On August 15, 1947, as India celebrated its first Independence Day, Arjan Singh led the first flypast over the skies of newly independent India, a moment that became a landmark chapter not just in his own career, but in the history of Indian aviation.
His leadership in the 1965 war made history
On August 1, 1964, he was appointed Air Marshal. Soon after, the India-Pakistan war of 1965 broke out, during which he led the Indian Air Force. His calm composure, firm decision-making and courage proved vital for the force during the conflict.
A rare record: 60 types of aircraft flown
Arjan Singh was not just a commander but an outstanding pilot in his own right. Over the course of his career, he flew 60 different types of aircraft, maintaining his passion for flying right up to the final years of his service.
Service to the nation continued even after retirement
Following the 1965 war, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan. Even after retiring in August 1969, his service to the country did not end. He went on to serve as India's Ambassador to Switzerland. In 2002, the Government of India conferred upon him the five-star rank of Marshal of the Air Force, making him the only officer in the Indian Air Force to hold this distinction.
In his later years, age-related health issues led to several hospital admissions. He was eventually admitted to the Research and Referral Hospital in Delhi, where he breathed his last on September 16, 2017.
Following his passing, tributes poured in from dignitaries across the world, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His life remains a powerful reminder that those who fly with courage do not merely touch the sky, they go on to write history.
- PTC NEWS
