Group Captain Sandeep Puri (16574) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the IAF on 11 Dec 1981. He has held many important Command and Staff appointments including Commanding Officer of a frontline Jaguar Squadron and Joint Director and Director Offensive Operations at Air HQ (VB). The officer is a Qualified Flying Instructor and alumnus of prestigious Defence Services Staff College. Presently he is on the posted strength of a major fighter Base as the Chief Operations Officer.

During his tenure as Commanding Officer of a fighter strike Squadron, the officer ensured a high operational and training status of the Squadron at all times. This required coordination and planning with the various agencies to ensure high serviceability of available assets. In the staff appointment at Air HQ, the officer performed creditably and conceptualised various operational tactics. Thereafter, the Officer was appointed as the Chief Operations Officer of a vital and important fighter Base in Northern Sector, which is a prime airbase and undertakes maximum fighter flying in Western Air Command. The task of Chief Operations Officer at Ambala entails close control and supervision of the three fighter squadrons, two Surface to Air Guided Weapon Squadrons and two Transportable Radar Units, besides numerous detachment, Exercises and Trials. Gp Capt Puri, with his past experience, professional ability and far-sightedness has been able to harmoniously amalgamate all the facets of operations and maintain these at peak efficiency. With his penchant for perfection, eye for detail and personal involvement in every activity of operations, he has been able to demand and achieve high standards. The sterling performance put up by the Ops Branch under his leadership during the Dte of Air Staff Inspection of the Station and the Squadrons, was appreciated and commended. With his concerted efforts and proactive approach, the huge airfield zone has been leveled and cleared of undergrowth reducing the bird menace to negligible levels, and creating a safe flying environment.

Air Force Station Ambala was entrusted an additional responsibility to conduct centralised training for exercise Cope Thunder04 to be held at Alaska. Gp Capt Puri involved himself fully and exercised close supervision of flying training spread over six months, ensuring operationalisation of new disciplines viz. AAR, ILS/VOR and TACAN training. The success and high professional standards displayed by the team at Alaska stand testimony to the professionalism and dedication of the officer. Gp Capt Puri led by example and displayed exceptional flying skills during Inter Squadron Gunnery meet held in Oct 2004, and bagged the trophy for 'Best in Bombing' individual event, by scoring two direct hits on the target, which is a record in itself.

For sustained professionalism and distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Sandeep Puri,