Group Captain Chennupati Ramachandra Prasad (14998) Flying (Navigator) was commissioned in the Flying Navigator's Branch of the 1AF off 10 Jun 1977. He has been CO of AF Stn, Begumpet since 29 Jan 01. In 26 years of distinguished service, he held several prestigious appointments, including Commanding Officer Navigators Training School (NTS), Directing Staff (DS) at Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) and Station Commander AF Station, Begumpet. Presently, he is held on the posted strength of HQ EAC, 1AF.

Gp Capt Prasad has displayed exemplary leadership qualities during his tenure as the Station Commander of AF Stn, Begumpet. During surprise inspection carried out by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI) team in Apr 2002, the Station was assessed 'High Average' in operations, training, maintenance, administration and air warrior qualities. DAS1 team commended the effort put in by the Station personnel under the leadership of Gp Capt Prasad.

The team building capability of Gp Capt Prasad resulted in all round improvements in operations, maintenance and administration of AF Stn, Begumpet. During the Commanders' Conference held at Headquarter Training Command in Aug 2002, the Station received three trophies (Flight safety and Maintenance Safety Trophy to Navigation Training School and two trophies for AFWWA and Hindi implementation).

Gp Capt Prasad has consistently endeavoured to improve the quality of life of the personnel placed under his command. His efforts were particularly focused on Flight Cadets, Airmen, NCs(E) and civilians. During his tenure, a number of works services and amenities were created for the benefit of airmen and flight cadets. This emphasis on the quality of life has ensured the highest level of motivation of air warriors under his command. The personal example set by Gp Capt Prasad has elicited the best out of all personnel. This was evident in the static display that formed part of the 1AF awareness campaign in the Twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Despite the short notice of just one-month, the static display conducted at AF Station, Begumpet was a grand success, where more than 1.5 lakh people visited the show. The ability of Gp Capt Prasad to marshal all available resources and meticulously implement the plan of action contributed in large measure to the success of this event. He displayed exemplary tact in coordinating with various agencies of Government of Andhra Pradesh and Airport Authority of India.

For his distinguished service of high order and exemplary leadership qualities, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Chennupati Ramachandra Prasad.