Wg Cdr R Banerjee was the Commanding Officer one of the Air Force Helicopter units from 27 Jun 88 to 19 Apr 91.

Although the unit was equipped with aircraft only on 27 June 88, with his tremendous enthusiasm, initiative and unparalleled organizing capacity, he not only declared the unit operational within six days but had also moved to Punjab for massive flood relief operations. His sterling qualities of intense patriotism, supreme leadership and excellent flying skills ensured very successful induction of Mi-17 ac in Op Pawan, especially in offensive role. He fully exploited the aircraft to ensure tremendous success during the operations, exhibiting a very high sense of professionalism and dedication to the cause. His unit remained inducted in OP Pawan for almost one year and flew more than 4000 hrs in extremely hostile environment without any accident/incident once again reflecting his qualities of leadership and professionalism.

Under his command, the unit undertook various tasks. Working prodigious hours, he cheerfully undertook all operations ranging from 'Op Meghdoot' to 'Op Falcon', Aid to civil power in Punjab, Srinagar and Patna, Air Maintenance in Himachal Pradesh and Special Heliborne Operations in the deserts of Rajasthan.

As a pilot, he has to his credit 8700 hrs of rotary Wing flying experience. His performance in the last five years has been really incredible in which he has flown 4603 hrs. Such outstanding feat in operational service flying is worthy of emulation.

For his leadership, professionalism par excellence and outstanding contribution to service whilst in command of an Air Force Helicopter Unit, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wg Cdr R Banerjee.