Chandigarh, Sep 20: A highly decorated Indian Air Force veteran, Air Marshal Randhir Singh died after brief illness. He was 97. Air Marshal Randhir Singh, PVSM, AVSM, Vir Chakra, breathed his last Tuesday night. He was cremated Wednesday with full military honours at Sector-25 crematorium in Chandigarh, said a release by the Ministry of Defence.

Air Marshal Randhir Singh's last rites were performed by his son Wing Commander Pradeep Singh (retd). He is also survived by a daughter. Air Marshal Singh was part of the first flypast over Red Fort on August 15, 1947. Indian Air Force Chief BS Dhanoa Endorses Rafale Deal, Says It Is Strengthening IAF.

Shiromani Akali Dal chief and former deputy chief minister of Punjab Sukhbir Singh Badal expressed condolence over the death of Air Marshal Singh.

"Very sad to learn about the passing away of highly decorated #IndianAirForce veteran, the legendary war time commander Air Marshal Randhir Singh. May his soul rest in peace and may Waheguru give strength to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss," Badal tweeted.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 20, 2018 12:41 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).