| Details : |  Wing Commander Rakesh Anand (15873) F (P) was commissioned on 19 Dee 79 in the Hying Branch of the Indian Air Force. He is currently posted at Southern Air Command where he has worked with single-minded devotion to prepare Carnicobar airfield for fighter operations. He has been closely supervising all sea flying activities during the Air Force- Naval exercises which has resulted in successful culmination of these exercises without a single accident/incident. He has commanded a Jaguar Squadron and has flown more than 5,000 hrs in his flying career spanning 20 years. He also has the distinguished achievement of having flown 2,000 hrs on the Jaguar aircraft. He is an A2 Instructor and has trained a large number of flying branch officers who in turn have displayed impeccable Flight Safety record. Wg Cdr Anand's personal Involvement and untiring devotion had enabled the squadron to achieve a very high degree of professional excellence. During his tenure, the squadron successfully undertook Op validation trials of the Griffin Laser Guided Bomb and the Jupiter Long Delay Fuse. Various other novel concepts such as Blind Bombing by night and weapon delivery under flare lit conditions were also validated. He led the squadron from the front during various exercises like Vayushakti, Akraman, Gujra) and so also during Op Sated Sagar. Further, while faced with a grave in-flight emergency resulting in one engine flame out and extensive airframe damage he displayed exceptional presence of mind and flying skill by recovering this crippled aircraft safely. Under his guidance, innovative ideas like fuel catch rig and drop tank stands were successfully put to practice. In the sphere of administration, he ensured an extremely healthy working environment. In spite of a number of commitments, a marked improvement in the Squadron morale and discipline were noticed during his tenure. His efforts also resulted in the Squadron being adjudged as the Champion Squadron in Central Air Command Exercise Ekiavya 99-2000. For his exceptional devotion to duty, personal example and ability to motivate all those under him, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Rakesh Anand. |
