Squadron Leader Ramakrishna Somnath was commissioned in the IAF in Oct 67 and was associated with the maintenance of Mi-8 helicopters since their inception and had served with distinction. He was responsible for setting up Mobile Conversion Flight training facilities as also servicing facilities in all the bases. These facilities are, even now, being extensively used for meeting the additional servicing requirements.

During the year 1976, Sqn Ldr R Somnath was entrusted with the task of maintenance of two types of helicopters employed to support Oil & Natural Gas Commission Bombay High off-shore operations. Immediately on his arrival at Bombay, Sqn Ldr R Somnath carried out an accurate assessment of facilities available at Bombay and nearby bases and geared up the unit with complete range of servicing facilities within a short time. As a result of this achievement, infructuous ferry of helicopters to a distant base could be stopped which has saved exchequer lakhs of rupees.

In the recent past there were many instances where fire extinguisher bottles in Mi-8 helicopters fired inadvertently during the starting cycle. Sqn Ldr R Somnath carried out extensive tests, conferred with specialists and took remedial measures that obviated the problem completely. He rendered invaluable guidance in modifying the aircraft for various roles.

For his professional skill, devotion to duty and having rendered distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL to Squadron Leader Ramakrishna Somnath.