Group Captain Arvind Ramchandra Oak (14103-G) Flying (Pilot) has been on the posted strength of HQ AOC J&K upto 04 Jul 99 and on attachment to, Air Force Station Srinagar thereafter upto 19 Jul 99.

On the assumption that combat elements of the IAF would be employed to evict the Pakistani intruders in Kargil area, Gp Capt Oak was ordered to Srinagar as the mission planner and coordinator on 22 May 99. He quickly established a viable system of detailed joint planning with his Army counterparts and drew up practical procedures for strike and air defence missions. His incisive and indepth briefings enabled participating aircrew to clearly understand mission profiles and objectives. Once the Air Force operations began on 26 May 99, he ensured an effective debrief methodology so that tactics could be refined or altered to meet emergent situations. The clarity of reports rendered by him enabled higher Headquarters in optimal resource exploitation and decision making.

Group Captain Oak worked with total devotion throughout his stay at Srinagar and his contribution towards the success of air operations has been extremely significant.

For distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Yudh Seva Medal' to Gp Capt AR Oak.