Air Marshal Sherwin Derek Lelie Tully was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 30th November, 1956. A graduate of the National Defence College and Defence Services Staff College and a fighter pilot of repute, he has held a variety of important command and staff appointments with distinction.

During the Indo-Pal Conflict, he displayed conspicuous courage and bravery. He later commanded a front-line fighter squadron when he used his initiative and innovativeness in bringing about noticeable improvements in operational standards.

On elevation to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, he took over as Director of Training at Air Headquarters where he ensured that training processes and methodologies remained in tune with the requirements of the Indian Air Force. Promoted to the rank of Air Marshal in 1992, he was appointed as Senior Air Staff Officer at Headquarters Training Command. He guided and supervised the updating of the training plan and with his dedication and involvement, made significant contribution towards improving the training in all aspects.

Air Marshal Sherwin Derek Lelie Tully has, thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.