Squadron Leader Puthumana Devidasan Menon was commissioned in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch in 1964. On completion of training he was awarded the CAS's medal for being first in order of merit. Within a few months after commissioning he was selected to undergo a course on Guided Weapons, on completion of which he served for nearly four years in a DVINA Squadron and thereafter for another four years in a DVINA Wing. During this period by virtue of his professional skill and hard work he contributed to a great extent towards enhancing the operational status of the weapon system.

In 1974 Squadron Leader Menon assumed command of a type 3101 Radar Squadron located in the western sector. During the three year period that followed, he upgraded the operational preparedness of the unit by consistent and intensive training of all personnel placed under him. In 1977, he was posted to the Rajasthan sector to take over command of another type 3101 Squadron. As CO and Senior Technical Officer of the Squadron, Squadron Leader Menon displayed outstanding qualities of professionalism and man-management. In recognition of this exe mplary work towards improving the servicea bility of equipment and the professional ability of personnel, he was commended by the AOC-in-C, No. 1 Operational Group in 1978.

In addition to his normal duties, during the past two years. Squadron Leader Menon has undertaken extensive practical studies/ trials, with a view to enhancing the operational capability of the radar equipment. These included studies on improving low level coverage by means of reverse mode operation and altering proportion of power-feed to aerials. Besides improving the technical status of his own unit, the officer provided valuable assistance in fault analysis and rectification at other squadrons in the Group equipped with similar radar.

For his outstanding initiative, and drive and distinguished services, Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Puthumana Devidasan Menon.