Shri Vijay Harel
- IRLA : NA
- UNIT : NA
- MARTYRED ON :
On 9th September 2007 at 1000 hours, an Air Force MI 17 helicopter landed at Bandipur helipad. During refuelling, suddenly a fire erupted near the fuel tank and the helicopter caught fire. A fire alarm was raised. It alerted the quick reaction team of 51 Bn of BSF, which reacted promptly and rushed towards the spot. Constable Vijay Harel was part of the quick reaction team. The team reacted promptly and started extinguishing the fire. Constable Harel courageously climbed on the burning helicopter and pulled away the fuel pipe and disconnected it from the fuel tank of the helicopter. He also pushed a Sepoy trapped in fire to safety. The timely and brave action of Shri Harel not only saved the life of a Sepoy but also obviated damage to the helicopter as well as saved the Aviation Turbine Fuel Barrels from exploding which were lying close to the family lines, offices and barracks. A major catastrophe was averted.Constable Vijay Harel displayed extraordinary valor and high degree of professionalism at great risk to his own life.