Lieutenant Errol Suvo Chunder Sen
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | India in World War I : Indian Air Warriors |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | August 20, 2019 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 500,000 |
| Perforation | 13¾ x 13¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Brahm Prakash |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3550 Stamp Number IN 3136 Yvert et Tellier IN 3231 Stanley Gibbons IN 3630 |
| Themes | Aircraft | Aviation | First World War |
India’s Early Air Warrior
Lieutenant Errol Suvo Chunder Sen holds a distinguished place in India’s aviation and military history as one of the first Indian military aviators. His service in the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) during the First World War (1914–1918) marked a pioneering chapter in the participation of Indians in aerial combat — a domain that was, at the time, both new and perilous.
Early Life and Legacy
Errol Sen hailed from a prominent and intellectual Bengali family. He was the grandson of Keshab Chandra Sen, the renowned philosopher, reformer, and one of the leading figures of the Brahmo Samaj movement. This distinguished lineage reflected in his courage, intellect, and sense of duty toward his country and humanity at large.
Aviation Training and Service
Sen was admitted to No. 70 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps, which was based at Poperinghe in West Flanders, Belgium. The squadron was equipped with the Sopwith Camel, a highly maneuverable yet challenging fighter aircraft that played a critical role in the air battles over Europe.
Despite the inherent risks and the racial barriers faced by colonial subjects at the time, Sen earned his place among the elite group of airmen, showcasing exceptional skill and bravery in aerial operations.
Capture and Imprisonment
During an air battle over Rouen, Sen’s aircraft was shot down by German forces. He was captured and became a Prisoner of War (POW) — a fate shared by many daring aviators of that era. Despite the hardships of captivity, Sen endured with courage and dignity until the end of the conflict.
He was repatriated to the United Kingdom on 14 December 1918, after the war ended, marking his safe return from one of the most dangerous professions of his time.
A Symbol of Indian Courage and Progress
Lieutenant Errol Suvo Chunder Sen’s story is not just one of individual heroism but also of India’s early participation in global aviation and modern warfare. At a time when few Indians were seen in positions of command or technical expertise, Sen’s service symbolized a new generation of Indians breaking colonial barriers through valor and excellence.
Honoured Through Philately
In recognition of the contributions of Indian soldiers and aviators like Lieutenant Sen, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp to honour their service during the First World War. His name stands proudly among those who paved the way for India’s future air warriors and helped shape the legacy of courage that defines the Indian Armed Forces today.
Lieutenant Errol Suvo Chunder Sen remains a symbol of bravery, resilience, and pioneering spirit, embodying the courage of a nation that contributed selflessly to a global cause long before achieving independence.