Details : | Group Captain Arun Saklani (19549) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a transport pilot in the flying branch on 11 Jun 88. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College. He was awarded an Air Officer Commanding in Chief Commendation on 26 Jan 2000. As the Commanding Officer of 49 Squadron, Gp Capt Saklani spearheaded trials for landing at Vijaynagar Advance Landing Ground (ALG 79). and accomplished the first ever landing at the renovated ALG. He was instrumental in carrying out trials for supply drop at Alinye (DZ 64). which culminated in the first ever drop at the Drop zone by a transport aircraft. Under his guidance. five sets of aircrew were cleared for the bombing role within a short duration of being allotted this additional task. His proactive approach and drive ensured that operations in North Sikkim could be resumed. resulting in supply drops at Drop Zone Muguthang being carried out for Army and Para Military forces. thereby enhancing the operational preparedness of the nation. Trials for operations to Drop Zone Chuna in Tawang sector were undertaken by him in the month of Oct 12. These extensive trials culminated in a successful drop at Chuna, located at an altitude of 13500 feet where man and machine operate at extremes of their operating envelope. The achievement was appreciated by the Indian Army, as it had a huge bearing on the morale of the troops operating in that sector. After the successful drop, Gp Capt Saklani was instrumental in clearing of other aircrew for the sector. Gp Capt Saklani with his high degree of professionalism, vision, skill and leadership qualities has enhanced the operational capabilities of the IAF. He has not only demonstrated an exceptional degree of excellence, but has also paid attention to detail. He has always accomplished assigned tasks with elan while adhering to safe flying procedures For exceptional devotion to duty, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vayu Sena Medal (Devotion to Duty) to Group Captain Arun Saklani. |