Let's take a closer look at her life as an Air Force officer,
by reading an excerpt from her daily diary.
15th June 2001
I am sure I will never forget my day today - I undertook
my first real casualty evacuation mission.
The day started as just another day. I got up at 6:00 a.m.
and after finishing early morning chores, I was well in
time for the morning briefing at 7:30 a.m. By the time we
had covered the meteorological forecasts and current weather
with the ATC and signals state, I was really hungry and
relished every bite of the excellent Breakfast at the Squadron
Cafeteria.
Within an hour we were done with the Mission briefing,
checking the aircraft as well as the Administrative and
Operational requirements of the Mission. At 10:00 a.m. we
took off as per the planned mission.
While we were in air, we received an unexpected message
over the radio to divert to Jammu for a casualty evacuation.
Further details were not given to us. After landing there,
we learned that an Army Jawan had been seriously injured
and needed immediate medical attention. He had sustained
a bullet injury and other abdominal damages during a shootout
at Jammu.
We quickly carried him with a medical attendant onboard,
and started on our journey back. The jawan seemed to be
in a critical condition. As we landed at Palam, he was immediately
taken to the Military Hospital for treatment. We took an
hour to carry out post landing checks and formalities.
As I had an hour before dinner, I rushed to have a quick
swim. Followed by a wash and change, I joined the other
officers at the Mess.
Though I am excited about my day today…I think I should
stop writing my diary and crash into bed.
17th June 2001
Today, I learnt that the Jawan, which we had evacuated the
other day, had survived. Though still under treatment, he
will shortly be fit to resume duties.
It was my first casualty evacuation mission and I'm glad
that it went off successfully. It gives me an added sense
of elation at having been able to help save a vital life.
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Flight
Lieutenant Shweta Dikshit is a transport pilot in the Indian Air Force. Posted
at Air Force station Palam, she asserts that each day brings with itself a new
adventure. When not in her flying machine, she loves to pump iron and take a swim.