249735 Sergeant SIDDIQUI KHURSHED ANWAR Engine Fitter

Sergeant Siddiqui Khurshed Anwar is employed as senior engine fitter in an Operational Conversion Unit. A totally dedicated engine technician, his ability of pinpointing engine problems and carrying out their rectification is of an exceptional order.

On one occasion, Sgt Siddiqui, while working on the tarmac heard some unusual engine noise from an aircraft which had just taxied out. He promptly stopped the aircraft and asked the pilot to switch off. Initial inspection of the engine did not reveal any abnormality. With due confidence in his professional ability, Sgt Siddiqui insisted upon removal of engine for further investigation. During detailed examination, one of the compressor blades was found broken, damaging 10 other blades. He, thus, averted an accident.

On another occasion, Sgt Siddiqui changed six Engine Drawn Pumps in one day, which is a record.

On several occasions, he carried out removal and fitment of engine on Hunter aircraft in a single day. There are many similar instances of Sgt Siddiqui's remarkable performance as an engine fitter. He has, thus, contributed a great deal in the considerable amount of flying done by this unit in the past six months.

For his total dedication to duty, exceptional professionalism and sincere and untiring long hours of work, Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to 249735 Sergeant Siddiqui Khurshed Anwar.

Squadron Leader Nirdosh Vatsyayan Tyagi has been on the posted strength of Operational Conversion Unit since October, 1982. A highly qualified officer, he is a Production Test Pilot, a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College and a Cat A-2 Qualified Flying Instructor.

During his tenure in the unit, he has served for eight months as Adjutant, in addition to his normal flying instructional duties. During this period, his diligence and meticulous attention to minute detail, have resulted in an outstanding administrative performance of the unit. His efforts characterized by honesty of purpose and a helpful attitude, resulted in the unit obtaining above average reports from Air Headquarters teams in 1984 and 1985.

As Officer-in-Charge Academics, the officer has displayed patience, knowledge, understanding and diligence to motivate trainees into utmost participation and perfect learning. Under his guidance they scored an average of 81% in a standardization check carried out by the Aircrew Examining Board.

For his hard work, selfless devotion to duty and outstanding contribution to the operational efficiency to the Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Nirdosh Vatsyayan Tyagi.