Group Captain Varun Singh, the lone survivor of the ill-fated chopper crash on 8 December succumbed to his injuries after a week-long resilient battle at the Military Hospital in Bengaluru.

Group Captain Varun Singh was being treated for severe burn injuries which he sustained in the helicopter crash. Initially he was admitted to the hospital at Wellington in Tamil Nadu, but was later shifted to the Military Hospital in Bengaluru. He had been on life support and while his condition was critical but stable less than 18 hours back, the Air Force soldier lost his final battle today afternoon.

IAF is deeply saddened to inform the passing away of braveheart Group Captain Varun Singh, who succumbed this morning to the injuries sustained in the helicopter accident on 08 Dec 21. IAF offers sincere condolences and stands firmly with the bereaved family.

— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 15, 2021

A letter written by the Group Captain had gone viral since the last week – the letter is addressed to the younger generation, especially children who he has asked to find their calling and never lose hope.

Since the ill-fated crash that claimed 13 lives (14 now), there were wishes and messages pouring in for the Shaurya Chakra Air Force officer, the sole passenger who was pulled out alive from the site of the crash.

Group Captain Varun Singh served the nation with pride, valour and utmost professionalism. I am extremely anguished by his passing away. His rich service to the nation will never be forgotten. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 15, 2021

Group Captain Varun Singh, described as a fighter by his father Colonel KP Singh, was awarded the Shaurya Chakra earlier this year, after he managed to handle his Tejas aircraft that was hit by a snag during a sortie in 2020.