Wing Commander Thazhathu Pulikunnel Devasia Joseph (169464) F (P) was commissioned in the Flying Branch on 29 December 1982. He has maintained an excellent flight safety record throughout his career. He has held the appointment of Air Force Examiner in Aircrew Examination Board. He is presently commanding a MiG-27 Squadron.

Wg Cdr Joseph was assigned the onerous task of commanding one of the only two night strike squadrons of the IAF. During the first year of his commanded, the share of nigh flying done by the squadron rose to 37% as against 30-31% prior to that. This was achieved inspite of long duration detachments for Millennium Vayu Shakti 2001 (MVS 2001) during fair weather period, long adverse weather period from Apr to Sep and recommencement flying for the inexperienced pilots in the squadron. Under his able guidance and supervision, eight pilots upgraded their operational status to Advanced Night Strike (ANS) qualified by Feb 2002. Through his active interaction with technical personnel and through meticulous planning, Wg Cdr Joseph was instrumental in raising and sustaining the serviceability of the fighters in the squadron by approx 20% during Sep 2001 to March 2002. As recognition of its continued superior performance over a prolonged period, the Squadron was selected as the only unit from Eastern Air Command to participate in the MVS 2001 in Jan-Feb 2001 and later in Sep 2001. The performance of the Sqn during the build up to MVS 2001 in Jan 2001 was particularly appreciated in writing by South Western Air Command, which was coordinating the show.

The officer, with his multidimensional initiatives and technological orientation, has effected several innovations. Many of these resulted in technical method simplification and quality enhancement. Some examples being, a wheel spinning device and modification for milking FDR data during super-structure engine ground runs. These innovative technical initiatives brought about higher aircraft availability with lesser man hours cost. In all these, he led from the front, setting personal examples of the highest standards, always keeping the interests of the service foremost. Thus, Wg Cdr Joseph has displayed excellent leadership, professionalism, and personal qualities, which have enabled the Sqn and its personal to achieve all the challenging tasks assigned to them with utmost efficiency and competence.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Wing Commander Thazhathu Pulikunnel Devasia Joseph.