| Details : |  Wing Commander Ajay Kukreja (16774) F (P) was commissioned in the flying branch of the IAF on 04 Jun 82. He is an A2 Qualified Flying Instructor, with over 8000 hours of flying. He has served as a flying instructor at the Air Force Academy and the Flying Instructors School. He has been the Training Officer / Flight Commander of operational transport squadrons for the past four years. The officer has dedicated himself to the cause of aircrew training thereby considerably improving the operational status of flying units. In the aftermath of Bhu) earthquake, leading by example, he motivated the squadron aircrew and maintenance staff ensuring round the clock relief operations by AN-32 aircraft. He achieved the distinction of landing the first AN-32 by night at Thoise in Jan 2000. With innovative planning and sustained effort he was instrumental In achieving a marked increase in supply drop tonnage by AN-32 in the Siachen Glacier without any increase of resources. Wg Cdr Kukreja was the Type Force Commander for major combat exercises in Feb 2000 and May 2001. The officer displayed remarkable foresight and professionalism as he meticulously planned for the selection of route, timing action at constant speed and co-ordination of the activities of all four sections of AN-32. Braving marginal weather, he ensured a safe and accurate drop by 18 AN-32 aircraft in close formation by night. Working till 2 - 3 A.M. during the planning and work-up phase, to resolve various flight safety issues and co-ordinate plans before the next mission, have been the hallmarks of this Type Force Commander. For exceptional devotion to duty, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Ajay Kukreja. |
