By Shishir Prashant 
PrashantNews
Flight Lieutenant Alfred Tyrone Cooke, a decorated war hero whose bravery during the 1965 Indo-Pak war remains part of the Indian Air Force’s military aviation history, has died at a hospital in New Delhi, IAF announced on Saturday.
In a post on X, the IAF described Cooke as an officer whose courage and determination exemplified “supreme valor” during the war.
The IAF particularly recalled his legendary dogfight over Kalaikunda, describing it as a demonstration of aggressive air combat and unwavering resolve. On the 7th September, 1965 when Kalaikunda airfield was under attack by 6 Pakistani Sabre Jet aircraft Flight Lt Cooke who was leading a combat air patrol immediately intercepted them. He engaged two of the enemy aircraft in complete disregard of his personal safety. The enemy aircraft tried evasive and counter-offensive manoeuvres; but with firm determination and exceptional skill Flight Lieutenant Cooke outmanoeuvred the enemy and pressed home his attack and shot down one of the enemy aircraft which disintegrated in mid air.
Subsequently, he skilfully put his aircraft in a favourable position behind another enemy aircraft, but by then he had no ammunition left. However, he kept the enemy on the run and the remaining enemy aircraft fled in confusion. In this action Flight Lt Cooke displayed great courage, leadership and devotion to duty in the best traditions of the IAF.
Cooke was awarded the Vir Chakra for his conspicuous gallantry, tactical brilliance and disregard for personal safety during combat. “His memory will continue to inspire generations of Air Warriors,” the IAF said while conveying its deepest condolences.
Cooke’s death marks the passing of another veteran of the 1965 war, whose actions in the skies over India became part of the country’s military aviation legacy.