Wing Commander SS Gunashekar (13487) AE (M) was commissioned in AE (M) Branch of the IAF on 02 Jul 73. He is posted as the Chief Engineering Officer of Air Force Station Tambaram with effect from 14 Nov 94.

Whole hearted technical support for the flying operations of this Station has been the hall mark of this Officer. The effective interface provided by him with HAL personnel directly contributed to high aircraft serviceability which has been the lifeline of scheduled flying operations. The stupendous average of 80% serviceability rate for Kiran and Deepak aircraft ensured timely completion of courses through unhindered and accident free flying training operations. As a leader par excellence, he established excellent inter-personal relationship at all levels and motivated his work force to achieve highest quality, productivity and accident free flying operations. A fitting reflection of this is the award of Flight and Maintenance Safety Trophy to this Station consecutively for the last two years by HQ Training Command, IAF.

The maintenance practices instituted by him ensured a good road safety record and high average MT serviceability rates of 98% and 95% for specialist and common user vehicles respectively. He master minded an indigenous repair of the cooling unit of Ashok Leyland CFT which saved invaluable time and Rs. 98,000/- in foreign exchange. Similarly, dedication of a manufacturing defect in Eicher Canter Coach led to free rectification by the dealer which resulted in a saving of Rs. 40,000/-. In addition, he directly contributed to a high serviceability rate of above 95% in communication, radio and navigational aids. His inspirational leadership and active involvement in the welfare activities of the Station are exemplary.

For distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award "Vishisht Seva Medal" to Wing Commander SSR Gunashekar.