Group Captain Ajay Masson (14926) Administration was commissioned in the Administrative Branch of the IAF on 10 Jun 1977. An Air Traffic Controller of very high calibre, the officer achieved 'Category A', the highest category for professional competence within ten years of service. During his chequered career of more than 27 years, he has held diverse appointments, which includes the posts of Senior Air Traffic Control Officer, Air Force Examiner for Air Traffic Control Officers, Chief Administrative Officer and Senior Personnel Staff Officer at Headquarters Training Command, IAF. A thorough professional, the officer in 1989 was adjudged as the 'Best Air Traffic Controller' in the IAF. An alumni of Defence Services Staff College and College of Defence Management, the officer for his professional ability and distinguished service was commended by the Chief of the Air Staff on 08 Oct 1999.

As Chief Administrative Officer at Air Force Station, Jalahalli this de-fatigable officer with total dedication and perseverance, demonstrated an exceptional capacity to work towards creating innovative infrastructural changes, resulting into improvement, in overall quality of life of the station personnel.

As Senior Personnel Staff Officer at HQ TC IAF, his excellent organisational and inter-personal skill ensured effective and timely completion of allocated tasks. The officer displayed highest standards of professionalism and foresight towards ensuring absolutely flawless and timely augmentation of human resources and foolproof security measures for Aero India-05, a mega event organised by Ministry of Defence. During his tenure the number of outstanding movements and disciplinary cases have shown a marked downward trend. The officer has an astute sense of comprehending and identifying problem areas. Being proactive in problem solving approach, he took keen personal interest to ensure error free and timely submission of Appraisal Reports, and effective implementation of the latest policies on 'USTAD' and revised assessment scheme for PBORs.

For his unflinching devotion to duty, professionalism and distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Ajay Masson.