Mumbai : The President has awarded the coveted Nao Sena Medal (gallantry) to a senior Navy officer based here for “displaying a high level of professionalism and skill” in piloting a helicopter in a daring rescue operation of a fireman during a fire at a high-rise in Andheri and the successful medical evacuation of a foreign national off the Mumbai coast.
Commander Kaustubh Gosavi, who hails from Nigadi village Koregaon taluka of Satara district in western Maharashtra, is the only recipient of the prestigious gallantry award. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and Sainik School, Satara.
“On September 27 last year, Commander Gosavi, while borne with 842 Squadron (Helicopters) was required to undertake medical evacuation of two crew from a merchant ship (MV Kurobe) located 35 nautical miles into the sea off Mumbai,” an official release said.
“Commander Gosavi, the pilot in command of the helicopter maintained his composure, reassured his crew, and displayed a high level of professionalism and skill in piloting the aircraft whilst effecting a successful MEDEVAC (medical evacuation) of a foreign national at extended ranges at sea.”
“The high levels of professionalism and resoluteness towards accomplishment of the mission in hostile weather conditions, whilst operating at fringes of Chetak helicopter ranges are beyond the call of duty, highly praiseworthy and in keeping with the highest traditions of the Services. Commander Gosavi, has been awarded Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) for the same,” it said.
