Squadron Leader Gurwinder Jeet Singh Cheema was commissioned on 13th December 1975. He has vast experience on Mi-4 and Mi-8 Helicopters, having taken part in counter insurgency operations in Nagaland and Mizoram.

He was among the first batch of pilots trained on Mi-17 and deployed in operations over Siachen Glacier. By his meticulous planning and intelligent application, he has successfully executed various tasks.

In Operation Meghdoot, the carried out more than 620 operational sorties and has been instrumental in dropping all the artillery guns. These guns were very effectively used and proved decisive.

For Operation Vajra Shakti, he flew many operational sorties successfully against heavy shelling and adverse weather conditions.

For rendering distinguished service, the Presi dent is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Gurwinder Jeet Singh Cheema.

Group Captain Gurwinder Jeet Singh Cheema (14292) F (P) has been Base Commander of the forward most Air Base of the Air Force since Sep 99.

Gp Capt Cheema has been one of the pioneers of Mi-8/Mi-17 operations in "Op Meghdoot" Sector. He has the unique distinction of carrying out the first night landing at Thoise in order to evacuate casualties from Nubra Valley during 1984. He has wide experience in counter insurgency operations in Northeast, J&K, Light Intensity Conflict in Op Meghdoot and Op Pawan (Sri Lanka). He has been the author of Offensive Armament Action Utilising Mi-17s during Op Pawan.

On assuming the command of the this important base which is directly supporting Air Maintenance of the troops in Siachen Glacier, critically and systematically analysed the various aspects that needed enhanced performance. He led by example through exhibition of professional competence and flying Mi-17s, both by day and night, to improve the operational status of aircrew. Despite numerous constraints he ensured that night landing facilities for fixed wing aircraft of the category of IL-76 was provided at Thoise during moon phase. He worked with zeal and enthusiasm to ensure no stone is left unturned to provide requisite facilities for air operations.

Gp Capt Cheema not only has a distinction of having logged more than 500 hrs of accident free flying but also the distinction of providing a safe environment at the airfield. Living conditions provided under extreme weather conditions to the personnel of the Station is note-worthy. The morale of personnel remained very high during his tenure in this difficult Sector.

For professionalism, dedication and leadership qualities of the highest order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Bar to 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Gurwinder Jeet Singh Cheema.

Air Commodore Gurwinder Jeet Singh Cheema (14292) F (P) has been on the posted strength of Air Force Station Yelahanka as Air Officer Commanding since 01 July 05.

Air Cmde Cheema has been one of the pioneers of Mi 8/Mi 17 operations in Siachen Glacier. His experience is all encompassing varying from counter insurgency to low intensity conflict operations. As Flt Cdr of a frontline and the first armed Mi-17 unit, he was instrumental in optimising Mi-17 utilisation in Op Pawan (Sri Lanka) towards extensive logistic support, causality evacuat ion and offensive armament support operat ions by day as well as night. The task was accomplished without attrition or accident. He has over 5000 hrs of accident free flying to his credit with over 500 h of flying in Op Meghdoot area. Subsequently, as Sqn Cdr of a Mi-17 unit, he ensured a high operational state and sustained accident free flying for three consecutive years. In two years of command of a forward base in Op Meghdoot sector, he brought up the airfield infrastructure that facilitated night landings by transport aircraft despite diverse constraints.

On assuming command of AF Stn Yelahanka, he systematically analysed aspects requiring enhanced performance to keep pace with increased flying task. The station hosted the first National Geographic air show in 2005 that was marked with a tremendous response from the public. Despite the growing congestion in Bangalore airspace, he ensured conducive flying environment by proper coordination with civil agencies along side beefing up of own support services. The station undertook approx 20,000 hours of flying during the year 2006 which is a land mark accomplishment. His thrust on infrastructure development and improvement of working as well living environment furthered station's output and morale. Concurrently, he relentlessly pursued preparations for Aero India 2007 and ensured continued and sustained liaison with civil, military and associated organisations to wards successful culmination of the show. His proactive approach and acumen for efficient management of resources ensured a secure and conducive environment for the five day long air exposition. As the AOC of the host station, he maximised the output by delegating responsibilities to sub-committees after meticulous scrutiny of detailed action plan. Tasks entrusted to the station were flawlessly executed and were appreciated by Indian and for- eign dignitaries. The biennial air show was a resounding success with an all time high participation from Indian and Foreign entrepreneurs.

Air Commodore Gurwinder Jeet Singh Cheema has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.