Group Captain Arabind Mohanty (13414) Lgs was commissioned in the IAF in the Logistics Branch on 14 Jul 1973. He has had varied experience in logistics functioning, having two tenures as SLO of major Air Force flying bases. He also had tenure in the personnel branch tasked to look after Logistics, Education and Medical Officers. He is a graduate from the Defence Services Staff College. Presently, he is Chief Logistics and Maintenance Officer (CLMO) at a Command HQ. Prior to taking over the present assign ment, he successfully commanded 31 MCU, which looks after the bulk of Air Force imports and exports.

As CLMO of this operational Command, the first task beset was to make smooth arrangements for shifting of all the Air Force equipment to a new location as well as to establish the logistics infrastructure at this location from a scratch. This task was accomplished in a smooth and meticulous manner.

The Command HQ organised the biggest Air Show and defence Exhibition as a part of Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the nation in Mumbai in 1998. Gp Capt A Mohanty was coordinator for the Air Show and the Exhibition and responsible for movement of stores and allied arrangements from distant Air Force bases in the country. The Mumbai Air Show was accepted as one of the grand shows in recent memory. Air Force Displays were completed in exemplary manner and all the logistics activities connected with these two events were accomplished in a time bound and professional manner under his guidance. His innovations in providing logistics cover ensured availability of the items at the doorsteps of the users and this was possible by close pro-active logistics activities carried out at the Command HQ. During the period Jan 99 to Dec 99, 69 cases of regularisation of losses, outstanding for great lengths of time were completed with his initiative.

Displaying leadership qualities of a high order, Gp Capt A Mohanty has led by setting a high standard of personal example for his subordinates to emulate. He has a sense of pride in the profession and camaraderie amongst personnel in and around him, resulting in battling against all odds to achieve professional competence of the highest order.

For his dedicated work, sound leadership and exceptional professional competence, the Hon'ble President is pleased to Award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Arabind Mohanty.