Air Commodore Suraj Lall Mathur (2444) was commissioned as Navigator in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in June, 1943. He has held a variety of important appointments with distinction during his long service. Since July, 1971, he has been serving as the Senior Officer in-charge Administration of Central Air Command. He took over this appointment at a time when the reorganisation of the Air Force Commands was to be implemented. Central Air Command had to face enormous problems during the reorganization, since this Command had to take over a number of Air Force Stations. This had to be done in the shortest possible, time in order to ensure a smooth changeover. With his devotion to duty, utmost patience and untiring zeal, he accomplished this task speedily and efficiently

For December, 1971 war with Pakistan, Air Commodore Mathur had to organize move of units to their operational locations at very short notice. He personally supervised the distribution of a large number of personnel routed to this Command under the augmentation plan and ensured that it was done smoothly. This called for long hours of hard work and he was able to achieve this task in an admirable manner. His example was a source of Inspiration to his subordinates who gave of their best under his able guidance.

During the War with Pakistan, Air Commodore Mathur had to work round the clock ensuring that even the smallest administrative problems which had a bearing on the conduct of operations were solved in the shortest possible time. The cessation of hostilities did not provide any relief to this Air Officer who had to make administrative arrangements in connection with the prompt retrieval of units which had been deployed at operational locations. He had to look after the immediate needs and rehabilitations of war widows and dependents of missing personnel.

Earlier in his career, Air Commodore Suraj Lall Mathur had commanded two Guided Weapons Wings which he had formed himself. He was thus responsible for raising a large number of GW Squadron and bringing these to operational standard. Throughout his career, he had ably handled all the assignments given to him. His devotion to duty at all times has been a sterling example and has been in the best traditions of the Air Force.

Throughout, Air Commodore Suraj Lall Mathur has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.