AIR MARSHAL M.S.D. WOLLEN

PVSM, VrC

Air Marshal Malcolm Shirley Dundas Wollen is an old Cottonian of 1944 vintage. Air Marshal Wollen was bestowed with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) for his stellar role in the 1971 Indo-Pak War. The PVSM, constituted in 1960 and nowadays awarded for sustained service, was, during 1971, generally regarded as recognition for a notable performance during the war. Air Marshal Wollen entered the Indian Air Force in July 1947 and while being commissioned in September 1949 was awarded the Sword of Honour, the Flying Trophy, and the President’s Plaque. He entered the fighter stream and flew all fighter aircraft, from the Spitfire to the Swept-Wing MIG 23. He commanded the Hunter, Gnat, and MIG 21 squadrons. Besides the Vir Chakra and PVSM, Air Marshal Wollen was awarded a ‘Mention in Dispatches’ during the 1965 Indo-Pak War. He was thrice commended for skilful handling of in-flight emergencies and survived five flying accidents including a mid-air collision! In May 1965, Air Marshal Dilbagh Singh (later chief of the air staff) handed over command of the 28 Squadron to Wing Commander Wollen (as he then was). The 28 Squadron was to gain prominence for successfully flying MIG 21s into Pakistan (Pathankot in particular) and causing havoc within the ranks of the enemy. In fact, Air Marshal Wollen was handpicked along with Air Chief Marshal Dilbagh Singh owing to his specialized expertise in flying the MIG. Air Marshal Wollen’s last three appointments in the IAF were as deputy chief of the air staff; air officer commanding-in-chief, Eastern Air Command; and air officer commanding-in-chief, Western Air Command. After an illustrious career in the IAF, Air Marshal Wollen retired in September 1984 and relocated to Bangalore, where he now lives with his wife, Rose. After retirement, Air Marshal Wollen served as the chairman of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) from September 1984 to March 1988. During his stint with HAL, the design and development of the advanced light helicopter and light combat aircraft (LCA) commenced.