Article Posted on : - Jun 30, 2009

A file photo of Air Warriors from the Indian Air Force

NEW DELHI (BNS): Group Captain Gurdial Singh Paul, a grand old retired Air Warrior who served the Indian Air Force from its formative years has passed away at the age of 93.

Singh was cremated near Brar Square, on Monday. A wreath was placed on behalf of the IAF by Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station, Race Course, Air Commodore Ajit S Bhonsle.

In 1943, he visited the UK for training, sailing from Mumbai to Durban to Southampton on the Elle de France, encountering German U-boat in the Atlantic. He spent time at various stations of the RAF in London, Cranfield, and Branham etc.

He had the privilege to serve in the same Squadron as the actor, Clark Gable. At times, Gurdial flew over occupied France and Germany on air reconnaissance flights and on more than one occasion, had close encounters with the German Messerschmitt.

He retired from the Air Force in 1971, as Station Commander Race Course, New Delhi.