Wing Commander Jasbir Walia (15684) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned on 15 Jun 79 in the Flying Branch of the IAF and has been the Commanding Officer of a Fighter Squadron since 17 Mar 97.

A highly motivated, diligent and responsible officer, Wg Cdr Walia has been able to motivate the Unit to a very high level of performance. The Squadron, during his tenure, has risen from strength to strength, which has been possible as a result of his exceptional leadership qualities. In Nov 97 the Squadron was graded above average by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI). The Unit has also proved its mettle in the Command Gunnery Meets, winning the first overall position for two years in succession. Wg Cdr Walia ensured that the operational capability of the Squadron kept on improving over this period. Whereas initially there was only one maritime night strike qualified pilot in the Squadron, now the Squadron can boast of nine nights strike qualified pilots and eleven supervisors. Except the newly postedin pilots, all are rated Green and above.

Leading by example, Wg Cdr Walia has been able to instill confidence, enthusiasm and a sense of pride in his men, binding the unit into a strong and potent team of professionals. The Squadron being adjudged the best Fighter Squadron in the Command bears testimony to this fact. At the same time, he has always held the welfare of those below him high in his priority by taking personal interest in the problems pertaining to the personnel and has been able to keep the morale of the personnel high.

For his professional capability and devotion to duty, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Jasbir Walia.

Group Captain Jasbir Singh Walia, VM (15684) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned on 15 Jun 1979 in the Flying branch of the IAF. During his 25 years of service he has held various important appointments including Commanding Officer of a Fighter Squadron, Staff Officer to AOC-in-C WAC and CAC, Staff Officer to the Vice Chief of Air Staff, Qualified Flying Instructor, Staff Member at Tactics and Combat Development Establishment (TACDE) and Joint Director (Tactical Operations) at Air HQ. He has been awarded VM in 2000 and AOC-in-C commendation twice in 1982 and 1996. Presently, he is Station Commander of a Fighter Base since 16 Oct 2002.

During his present tenure as Station Commander, the Base has won many laurels. The Base achieved a unique double distinction of a completely accident free record and at the same time achieving the maximum flying effort by both the local Type 75 and Attack Helicopter squadrons. In the area of maintenance, the Wing boasted an enviable technical error-free record while maintaining the highest serviceability rates for a Type 75 Squadron. He was also instrumental in improving a great degree, leading to higher motivation levels among its personnel.

The performance of the Station during the inspection by DASI was uniformly high. As a special mention, DASI had praised the leadership displayed by Gp Capt Walia. The Station was recognised as one of the best Flying Wings of the Western Air Command and was nominated to represent WAC in the competition to select the "Best Flying Wing" in the IAF.

For his distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Jasbir Singh Walia.