Squadron Leader Vineet Goel (20699) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Aeronautical Engineering Branch of the IAF on 11 Mar 1991. The officer has varied experience and has worked as Deputy Chief Engineering Officer at Southern Air Command. He was commended by AOCin-C, Central Air Command in 1995 and by the CAS in 1997. Presently, he is on the posted strength of a Base Repair Depot (BRD) since 11 Dec 2000.

Sqn Ldr Goel has excellent organisational skills and has ensured efficient and smooth flow of work by reorganizing the overhaul activities. The officer has regular interaction with Equipment Depot (ED) and HAL (Kanpur). His meticulous planning, hard work and persistent efforts have helped completing the task of 10 AN-32 overhaul before 31 Mar 2003. Implementation of structural modifications during overhaul was a grey area in AN-32 aircraft. After detailed study he fabricated local tooling, devised detailed procedure and implemented four out of six modifications. This has obviated the need for deputation of foreign specialists for implementation.

The officer is an excellent professional and applies his knowledge effectively through total involvement and dedication. He has been giving invaluable suggestions to overcome critical problems in AN-32 fleet. When a transport ac veered off the runway on landing at Kanpur, he was able to pinpoint the exact reason for this to the inadequate engagement between follow up system bell crank and nose wheel steering cylinder. He then suggested a procedure for testing and rectification of the defect to prevent any recurrence. A snag of aircraft rolling to port side on selection of antiicing on an another transport aircraft of Chandigarh, which existed for more than three years was successfully rectified under his direct supervision. His other noteworthy contributions are successful completion of life enhancement studies on AN-32 Flexible Fuel Tanks and preparation of Corrosion Prevention and Control Programme document.

For his professional capabilities, efficient managerial skills and distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Squadron Leader Vineet Goel.