Wing Commander Gopal took over the station equipment section at one of the operational wings in May, 1964. This section was then considered to be the weakest link in the efficient functioning of the station.

Within a few weeks, Wing Commander Krishna Gopal Pillai reorganized the section on a more rational basis thereby almost doubling the output. Under his firm and efficient supervision and expert guidance, the Station Equipment Section became one of the most efficient sections on the station within a few months time. The varied demands of the squadrons based at this operational wing were promptly met. The resultant increase in aircraft serviceability was the result of the efficient working of the equipment section. The operational preparedness of the units based at this Wing during the trying periods of hostilities against Pakistan in 1965, was due entirely to the personal contribution of Wing Commander Krishna Gopal Pillai and the efficient manner in which he carried out the reorganization of his section. In addition to his basic duties as the senior Equipment Officer, he cheerfully volunteered for many other secondary duties and carried them out to the utmost satisfaction of the station commander.

His capacity for hard work, organizing ability and unflattering devotion to duty were a source of inspiration not only to the personnel serving under him, but even to others who came in contact with him. Unfortunately, this dedicated officer died in June, 1966.