Wing Commander Shreesh Mohan (16966) F (P) was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force on 29 Dec 1982. He has over 3400 hours of flying experience to his credit. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor, a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College, and an Instrument Rating Instructor cum Examiner. He was also part of the initial core group pilots who were trained in Russia on the Sukhoi-30 in 1997. He has been the Commanding Officer of the premier front line Sukhoi-30 Fighter Sqn since 15 May 2000. Having taken over this prestigious Su30 Squadron, Wg Cdr Mohan has led the Sqn from strength to strength with great enthusiasm, selfless motivation and a very professional approach. With his personal example, dedication, passion for excellence and concern for his men, he has consistently inspired the unit to perform exceptionally well. Under his dynamic leadership, the Sqn was adjudged the Best Fighter Sqn in SWAC for the year 2000 and participated in the Best Fighter Sqn competition for the Air Force in 2001. The Sqn has been involved in various operational trials, tactics development, equipment validation and was the forerunner for special missions during the period of 'Op Parakaram' activation in Dec 2001. Through his meticulous and professional approach he has endured that all the tasks assigned to the unit were performed in an unprecedented manner and in keeping with the finest traditions of the IAF.

With his expertise and previous experience, Wg Cdr Mohan has been instrumental in forming a three aircraft formation aerobatic team on the Su-30, leading once again from the front as the leader of the formation, it was for the first time that such a dedicated team was formed on a large and heavy aircraft of a frontline Sqn. He has also led the Sqn for numerous aerobatic and fly-past displays with clockwork precision, on events of national and international importance including Republic Day, International Fleet Review and Air Force Day. His able leadership, professional guidance and emphatic approach have created a very congenial environment, which has helped in instilling strong professional pride and a sense of belonging to the unit. He has ensured a very high standard of overall performance and the Sqn achieved an average plus grading in all fields from DASI in Dec 2001.

For his distinguished service and devotion to duty, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Shreesh Mohan