Wing Commander Subash Chander Madan took over as the first Commanding Officer of No. 8 Ground Training School, Air Force in November, 1976. He was assigned a challenging job of forming a Ground Training School for Pechora complex. With only a short period of two months ahead for the com mencement of the full fledged course comprising 50 officers and 452 airmen to be trained on the newly acquired sophisticated SAGW system, this officer took up the challenge and embarked on the completion of the colossal task of setting up the class rooms, a large 'secret' library, training aids of large dimensions, deployment of combat equipment in a far flung area, accommodation for specialist vehicles and above all meticulous drawing up of detailed syllabi on the vast and varied subjects embracing various faculties.

This tremendous task involved detailed planning and prompt execution at all levels. Wing Commander Madan's impeccable professional knowledge, profound capacity for organisation and qualities of leadership with characteristic vigour, zeal and determination are of such high order that he successfully attained the goal in a superb manner working almost round the clock, thus paving the way for the commencement of the course as programmed.

Inspired by his personal example, enthusiasm and devotion to duty, officers and men under his command cheerfully worked extra time with him. He commanded the respect and absolute loyalty and confidence of those placed under him, while being trusted and commended by his superiors. So far, three special GW courses have successfully passed out comprising 117 officers and 1000 airmen of different groups, with brilliant academic and professional acumen. Besides, three short term courses for Senior Commanders have also been conducted under his able guidance. As a part of training, Wing Commander Madan executed several mobility exercises of the entire convoy of the complex without any mishap.

Within a short span of its inception, No. 8 Ground Training School, Air Force has found a place for itself among the foremost training institutions in the IAF. The significance, reputation and achievements of this institution have attained recognition under Wing Com mander Madan's stewardship. It is looked upon with faith as a result oriented organisa tion for consultancy service in so far as the Surface to Air Guided Weapon of the Air De fence Ground Environment System is concerned. Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Subash Chander Madan for his distinguished and exemplary service of a high order