Wing Commander Om Parkash Kukreja was commissioned in the Flying (Navigator) Branch of the Indian Air Force in January, 1953. During his early period of service career, he attended Air Interception Course in the United Kingdom. After completing this course, he served as a Navigator in a Night Fighter Squadron. Later, he served as a Navigation Instructor in the Air Force Flying College and as Flight Commander of a transport Squadron. He has successfully completed the School of Land/Air Warfare Course, Ad hoc Navigation Instructors Course and Interviewing Officers Course. At present he is serving as Deputy Director Operations Room at Air Headquarters.

His Zeal, organising ability and devotion to duty have been instrumental in streamlining the set-up the Operations Room. During the Indo-Pak operations in December, 1971, he put himself on the roster with other Officers in addition to being overall incharge of the Operations Room and worked long hours untiring. He was responsible for giving comprehensive and detailed briefing to the Chief of the Air Staff and the Principe Staff Officers every morning during the operations. During this period, he handled many intricate problems with remarkable efficiency.

Wing Commander Om Parkash Kukreja displayed leadership, professional skill and devotion to duty and has rendered distinguished service of a high order. He is awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal.