Vinod Kumar, Petty Officer ACM (D) conferred Nao Sena Medal

At about 0800 hours on 04 Aug 11, Marine Commando Flight responded to a SOS call for evacuating crew from MV RAK CARRIER which was about 25 NM Southwest of Mumbai. SC 557 was immediately launched for the task and Vinod Kumar was assigned as the rescue diver for the mission. After 15 minutes of flying in inclement weather the aircraft reached the vessel. The ship was sinking and the sea was heaving in the monsoon seas.

While the aircraft was hovering, Vinod Kumar, was winched down to the vessel to rescue the personnel.The ship was sinking and the sea was heaving in the monsoon seas. While the aircraft was hovering, Vinod Kumar, was winched down to the vessel to rescue the personnel.

On being lowered on to the ship which was already half submerged and tilting forward dangerously, he realized that the rescue plan had to be carried out quickly as the ship was at a risk of sinking any moment. He briefed the ship’s crew about the rescue drill, covered the plan of action in case the ship went down and effected smooth, expeditious and orderly recovery of 15 crew members by the rescue helicopter. All this was accomplished on a dangerously tilting vessel which was being lashed by waves. He helped in rescue of fifteen precious human lives, while placing service before self. Braving treacherous weather conditions, he displayed utmost proficiency in conduct of the task assigned to him.

Vinod Kumar, POME ACM (D) has been awarded ‘Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry)’ on 63rd republic day for exceptional courage and initiative in the face of great danger