Wing Commander Rajiv Dayal Mathur (16772) F (P) was commissioned on 04 Jun 1982 as a fighter pilot in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and has held several important command and staff appointments including Commanding Officer of a MiG-21 Bis Squadron. He is a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College.

Wg Cdr Mathur assumed command of a fighter squadron on 10 Jun 2000. Under his command the squadron has had an unblemished record, having so far flown over 4500 hours and trained 18 young pilots without any loss of precious aircrew or aircraft. During the Command level Air-to-Ground Armament meet "Ekalavya 2001", Wg Cdr Mathur displayed very high professionalism by himself leading three missions. His squadron won four out of the seven coveted trophies. The squadron was also adjudged the Best Fighter Squadron in South Western Air Command.

Following the earthquake, which rocked the region of Kutch on 26 Jan 2001, Wg Cdr Mathur was tasked with rescue operations outside the Air Force camp. Even as the aftershocks continued to occur, he and his squadron personnel worked round the clock for over three days and in the process rescued 53 people trapped in the debris. Barely ten days later, his squadron was required to recommence operations from another base. Despite the upheaval caused by the eart hquake and the consequent hardships. Wg Cdr Mathur succeeded in motivating his squadron personnel to remain focused on organisational goals. Leading by personal example, he was able to provide renewed purpose and direction to the personnel of the squadron, who rose to the occasion by achieving the allotted tasks even under such difficult conditions.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Rajiv Dayal Mathur.