Details : | Group Captain Devashish Kukreti (24519-N) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying branch of IAF on 21 Jun 97. He is commanding a frontline Jaguar Squadron since 13 Apr 15.The officer is a Fighter Strike Leader (FSL) as well as an Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner (IRIE). He stood first in overall order of merit in the 56 FSL course at TACDE and in Air Wing at DSCSC, Sri Lanka. Prior to this tenure, he was Flight Commander of a frontline Jaguar Sqn and later Command Staff at HQ WAC. The officer also achieved the distinction of completing 3000 hours of accident! incident free flying on Jaguar aircraft. A highly motivated and dynamic officer, he possesses excellent professional acumen and is an inspiring leader. Under his able stewardship, the Squadron has flown extensively and ensured that all aircrew upgrade their qualifications as per seniority and experience. For his meticulous planning, foresight and eye for detail, the officer was selected to lead Jaguar contingent in 'Ex Red Flag' at Alaska from 03 Apr to 24 May 16. As Detachment Commander for the exercise, his immaculate leadership and personal involvement in training and administrative issues, ensured successful execution of the detachment with 100 percent serviceability, exceptional weapon scores and nil accident! incident. The effort of the Sqn was well appreciated in Indian as well as abroad. His tremendous ability and leadership skills are evident as the squadron extensively flew Operational Recce lite missions post Uri attack, participated in Exercise Livewire and Operational Capability Demonstration Exercise 4-8-9, bagged Overall Runner Up in Spot Eklavya, performed exceptionally well in AEB and DASI inspections, indicating sound operational preparedness and relentless training. The officer led the Jaguar formation in Republic Day Fly Past in a most professional manner, inspite of extremely adverse weather. Under his constant guidance, there has been a consistent improvement in discipline, decorum and turnout standards in the Sqn. He has also made rapid strides towards sustained improvement in the quality of life of his work force by creating a congenial and healthy working atmosphere in the unit. For exceptional devotion to duty, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vayu Sena Medal (Devotion to duty) to Group Captain Devashish Kukreti. |