Flight Lieutenant Shreepad Tokekar (21815-F) Flying (Pilot) has been on the posted strength of a Fighter Squadron, since 26 Aug 96.

During 'Op Rakshak' on 15 Jun 99 he was responsible for picking up enemy camp at Muntho Dhalo and was part of the formation which carried out a successful strike on the target. On 24 Jun 99 he carried out a direct attack on enemy fortification at Tiger Hill with 6 x 250 Kg bombs. He was the only pilot to have carried out a direct attack on Tiger Hill. The attack was highly successful as reported by own ground forces. On 08 Jul 99 he led a two aircraft mission against enemy camp site located at point 4388 and again achieved a direct hit. Post sortie film analysis indicated that the target was totally destroyed. This attack broke the back bone of enemy logistics supply to Tiger Hill and Muskoh Valley and was largely responsible for the enemy to bid a hasty retreat in these sectors. During this strike Surface to Air Missiles were fired at the other member of the formation. This did not deter him from carrying out attacks with pinpoint accuracy on enemy targets. On subsequent days he followed up with repeat attacks on enemy camp sites located along the Valley with a high degree of accuracy.

Flight Lieutenant Tokekar flew a total of 24 missions in the Kargil sector of which eight were live bomb strikes. He displayed immense devotion to duty, involvement and professionalism of the highest order during planning and execution of missions despite encountering hostile response from the enemy.

For exceptional devotion to duty the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Flight Lieutenant Shreepad Tokekar.