A tribute to a veteran air force hero from Shillong

India, after attaining independence, did not live in peace. Besides the Britishers, there were other countries too which wanted to rule over India. But due to the hard work and vigilance of these heroes in the armed forces, India was saved from the hands of these foreign invasions.

Here I am contributing to the life and heroic deeds of one of the veteran heroes of the past who had served in the Indian Air Force, and due to his hard work and vigilance, India was saved from the Chinese and Pakistanis.

D. General Singh Syiem was one of the veteran heroes who served in the Indian Air Force for 30 years. His vigilance and dedication to the work brought laurels to his life and family.

Syiem was born at Mawlai Nongpdeng in East Khasi Hills in 1930. He had done his matriculation from Mawkhar Christian Boys’ High School and Intermediate Arts from St. Anthony’s College. He joined the Indian Air Force in 1954 as a Flight Sergeant, or JCO as it is known today.

In 1965, he got married to Icydoris Sahkhar, a resident of Howell Road, Laban, and later lived at New Kench’s Trace Road, Lumshatsngi.

During his tenure in the Indian Air Force, Syiem played a crucial role in detecting and tracking the Chinese planes, which showed his exceptional skills and vigilance. He took part in the Indo-Chinese War in 1962. His bravery was also seen as he took part in the Indo-Pak War in 1966 and the Conflict in 1971. Here, he showcased his exceptional bravery, strategic thinking and professionalism. The war, which led to the creation of Bangladesh, was a testament to the Indian armed forces’ courage and tactical brilliance.

The Western Air Command’s Appreciation Certificate that he received in 1975 is a testament to Syiem’s outstanding service and contributions during the Indo-Pak War and Conflict. The prestigious President’s appointment as a Warrant Officer, which he received in 1980, marks a recognition that underscores his commitment to excellence and his role as a respected leader in the military. His expertise in surveillance and reconnaissance was instrumental in safeguarding national security and protecting the country’s interests.

Throughout his illustrious career, Syiem demonstrated unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership and a strong commitment to duty. His contributions to the Indian Air Force were marked by distinction and legacy as an inspiration to future generations of service men and women. His selfless service, patriotism and dedication to duty will be remembered for years to come.

Syiem took a voluntary retirement from the Indian Air Force as a Master Warrant Officer in 1984 and later completed his tenure of service as a Security Officer in the Survey of India till his full retirement in 1993.

After his retirement, he worked with the Laban Presbyterian Church. He later became a Bible Man at Wahlingkhat for exactly one year. On March 8, 1998, he passed away in service from a sudden stroke, leaving behind his wife and daughter.