New Delhi

The Indian Air Force on Wednesday paid tribute to war hero Marshal Arjan Singh on his 107th birth anniversary, describing him as a symbol of exceptional leadership, courage and foresight whose legacy continues to inspire generations of air warriors.

An iconic figure in India’s military history, Marshal Arjan Singh was the first and only officer of the Indian Air Force to be conferred the five-star rank of Marshal in 2002.

Born on April 15, 1919, in Lyallpur, Singh came from a family with a long military tradition, as his father, grandfather and great-grandfather had all served in the cavalry.

He led a young Indian Air Force during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 while still in his 40s. He passed away in September 2017 at the age of 98.

In a post on X, the Air Force said: “On the 107th birth anniversary of Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh, DFC, IAF pays tribute to one of the nation’s most revered air warriors.” It added that his service to the nation remains etched in military history.

The Ministry of Defence also honoured him, recalling his dynamic personality, professional competence, leadership and strategic vision.

According to the ministry, Arjan Singh was the first officer to be appointed Air Chief Marshal of the IAF.

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He was also awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1944 for his leadership during the Burma campaign in World War II.