Wing Commander Krishnakumar Vasant Bodaradikar (10091) F (P) has been in Command of Central Air Command Communication Flight since 17 Jan 83. He is a qualified A-2 Instructor on type and holding A/Master Green Category/Rating on Avro aircraft since 1977. He was also an Air Force examiner on Avro aircraft and was a member of Aircrew Examining Board. He has over 5446 hours of flying of flying experience and during his stay he had flown 455 hours. He was instrumental, with his vast experience and professional skill and knowledge, for the unit's ability to achieve 100% categorization. His instructional experience helped in consolidating the flying skill and professional knowledge of ab-initio pilots posted in from Transport Training Wing, AF and thus obtaining initial categorisation of such pilots within a short period of 6 months. His involvement with the maintenance staff and professional inquisitiveness helped solving major problems in Avro's windscreen heating and imparting the solutions to other Avro operating units, thus avoiding unwanted expenditure involving foreign exchange/colossal repair charges at HAL Kanpur. His innovativeness in handling maintenance problems helped in keeping the aircraft 100% serviceable except during periodical servicing. His keenness and self reliance also enabled the unit to carry out Check servicing on the aircraft at Allahabad itself.

A keen sportsman Wing Commander Bopardikar took active part in Unit/Station/ Command sports activities. Due to his zeal there was a sudden spurt of sports activities of the unit. His contribution towards the bringing up of a Golf course at Air Force Station Allahabad itself speaks volumes of his interest and dedication towards sports.

Wing Commander KV Bopardikar took personal interest in the problems of his men facing accommodation/schooling problems etc and helped in alleviating them. Always lending a helping hand to personnel of the unit and others, he endeared himself to all.

For his devotion to duty, dedication and professional competence in the best traditions of the Fair Force, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wing Commander Krishnakumar Vasant Bopardikar. Authority: Notification No. 36-Pres/86 dated 26th January, 1986 published in Part 1, Section 1, Gazette of India dated 19th April, 1986.