Wing Commander Ravi Sharma (17785) Lgs was commissioned in the Logistics Branch on 21 Dec 84 and is presently posted as the Senior Logistics Officer Air Force Station, New Delhi since 21 Jun 03.

The officer was seconded to Navigation branch during 1988-95, where in he flew almost 4000 hrs as navigator, which is the highest among his peer group. Thereafter while posted at Air Headquarters, he was at the forefront in indegenisation and installation of first arrester barrier system for which he was commended by the Chief of the Air Staff. Further, during his tenure as Senior Logistic Officer and Senior Administrative Officer at Kumbhigram, the station was adjudged as the best administered station in Eastern Air Command.

The officer during the present appointment was tasked to equip eight UN missions to Congo and Sudan in a short span of last two and half years. Meeting the deadlines was crucial. His judgment of situation and meticulous planning enabled him to develop concept of forming a cell to equip foreign missions which earned accolades from all echelons of UN and Air Force. He closely interacted with more than 150 vendors including the Original Equipment Manufacturers situated in various parts of the country and reduced the lead time to meet the deadline without compromising on quality and cost. The task involved meticulous planning, forecasting and persuading agencies, finding the source of equipment, its serviceability, packing and safe transit of 13000 lines/3000 tons of spares to its final destination in Congo. The officer also played a stellar role in design and development of winter over wear (leather jacket), aircrew brevets and 30 other accoutrement items which resulted in reduction in cost as well as increase in life.

With his personal example, he has been able to bring in an attitudinal change in the personnel under him resulting in proactive logistics support. The challenging task of ration issue at Delhi area has been efficiently met by him. He was instrumental in successful implementation of Clothing Online Information System, which is of immense help to over 7500 air warriors of Delhi area. It reduced their unnecessary movement for entitlement check and collection. His efforts in planning and forecasting spares requirement has yielded in saving of 30 % (Rs 35 Lakhs) in Mechanical Transport spares expenditure by procuring genuine spares from Original Equipment Manufacturers/authorized out lets. His professional competence, administrative acumen and leadership qualities make him a role model for others to emulate.

For his distinguished service of high order, exemplary dedication to service, unlimited enthusiasm and efficient management capabilities, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Ravi Sharma.