In 1941 Sidney Basil Noronha was commissioned as a General Duties pilot in the Royal Indian Airforce(RIAF)

All through the Jammu and Kashmir Operations of 1947-48, the RIAF rendered vital logistical and tactical support to the Indian ground forces in their operations against Pakistani raiders. Wing Commander Noronha carried out more than 37 operational sorties over enemy - held positions in support of the army operations. Despite the adverse conditions his leadership skills enabled him to lead his squadron effectively in carrying out several offensive operations against the enemy.

Wing Commander Noronha was honoured with the Mahavir Chakra but India lost the services of a brave soldier when he passed away at the age of 38, while in service.