Wing Commander Rakesh Kumar Jolly was commissioned on 11 Jul 75 in the Fighter Stream of the Indian Air Force. Since then he has flown over 3700 hours of accident free flying. He is an A-2 Qualified Flying Instructor and an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College.

Wg Cdr Jolly assumed command of a front-line MiG-21 Bis Squadron in March 1995. With his professional attitude and attention to detail, Wg Cdr Jolly's leadership was instrumental in significant and tangible achievements of the Squadron.

The Squadron performed well in all fields and was assessed as Average Plus by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection. In the 1996-97 Inter Squadron Gunnery Meet, Wg Cdr Jolly steered his unit to the first position in rocketry, and to the second position overall. Despite constraints of weather, and frequent detachments, the Squadron was able to achieve 100% operational and instrument rating status and an enviable flight safety record. The Squadron bagged the inter-unit sports trophy for 1995-96 and also achieved one of the best aircraft serviceability status in the MiG-21 Bis Fleet.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Rakesh Kumar Jolly.

Group Captain Rakesh Kumar Jolly VM (14083) F (P) was commissioned in the IAF on 11 Jul 1975. He had commanded a Sqn. He has also been a Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) at Flying Instructors' School (FIS) and Directing Staff at College of Air Warfare (CAW) and presently Stn Cdr at an AF Station. He has 3900 h accident free flying. His squadron won the 'Best Fighter Sqn' trophy in 1996 and stood second in Ex 'Eklavya' the same year. He was awarded the Majithia Trophy at FIS for standing first in overall order of merit and the Vayu Sena Medal for his successful Sqn Cdr's tenure.

As Stn Cdr, the officer was responsible for orchestrating Millennium Vayu Shakti (MVS) to be witnessed by Chiefs of Air Staff from all over the world. Though postponed once and cancelled the second time, the major portion of work was actually completed on each occasion. Planning for MVS was a challenging assignment. Gp Capt Jolly displayed equanimity, sense of purpose and excellent management skills in directing work towards this major function.

A good motivator, the officer was able to mould his team on the station to efficiently support a large number of weapon system trials. The station won a variety of awards during major and minor Command exercises and was runner up in 2001 for the 'Pride of SWAC' award. Undoubtedly, this was adequate testimony to his successful stewardship.

For distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Rakesh Kumar Jolly VM.