During the operations against Pakistan in December 1971, Flight Lieutenant Gurdev Singh Rai was serving with a fighter bomber squadron in the Western Sector. On 4 December, he successfully carried out a strike mission on the Sakesar Signals units complex. The next day, he was detailed leader of the repeat strike mission. He exhibited conspicuous courage and determination in the face of strong enemy opposition and succeeded in damaging the radar unit to the extent that it went off the air completely. But unfortunately he could not be contacted thereafter. 

Throughout, Flight Lieutenant Rai displayed gallantry and leadership of a high order.