Air Marshal Verinder Puri was commissioned as a pilot in the transport stream on 25 August 1956. During his long illustrious career, he has held many important assignments both in the field and staff. He has flown various types of aircraft and has 9500 hours of accident free flying to his credit. An A2 Qualified Flying Instructor, he has also served as staff at the Flying Instructors School. He has been the Air Force Examiner with Aircrew Examining Board for two years. Because of his instructional prowess, he was selected to go on deputation to a friendly country to train its pilots. He has commanded three field units including the prestigious Air Headquarters Communication Squadron associated with VVIP/VIP commitments. For his professionalism, determination and courage he was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (VM) in 1964 and a Bar to VM in 1975. He has commanded two major Air Force bases and was subsequently specially selected to undertake diplomatic assignment as Air Attaché to USA. On promotion to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, he was appointed Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) of Southern Air Command. The Air Officer was responsible for the efficient conduct of air operation during operation Pawan (Sri Lanka) and operation Cactus (Maldives). He was later appointed Senior Air Staff Officer of Eastern Air Command (EAC) on promotion to the rank of Air Marshal, where he worked diligently towards improving the operational preparedness and efficiency of the Command. The Air Officer is presently serving as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOCin-C) Training Command (TC). He has put his vast flying, field and staff experience to optimum use by ensuring that high training standards are maintained and all courses are completed on schedule. Air Marshal Verinder Puri, VM and Bar has thus rendered distinguished service of most exceptional order. |