Squadron Leader Harjit Singh Ghuman was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in May, 1959. Since March, 1972, he has been serving as Flight Commander of an operational Squadron. It was due to his rare organising ability, zeal, determination and single minded devotion to duty that the Squadron got an above average assessment in 1972. He has over 5,200 hours of accidentfree flying to his credit which includes over 1200 instructional hours. He holds the highest instrument rating and his unflagging zeal for operational flying has been a constant source of inspiration to his juniors.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Harjit Singh Ghuman displayed courage, professional skill and exceptional devotion to duty.

Air Commodore Harjit Singh Ghuman was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 29 May 1959. In recognition of his professionalism, at various stages of his career, he has been commended by Air Officer Commanding­in­Chief and Chief of Air Staff and was also awarded Vayu Sena Medal.

After having ably commanded a prestigious operational transport squadron, he was selected and appointed as Air Attaché in Iran where he performed most competently and professionally. On his return in February 1980, he took over as Air Officer Commanding of one of the largest combat wings. The Wing was passing through a very critical phase when Air Cmde Ghuman assumed its stewardship. The Packets were in the process of being phased out and in their place the most modern transport aircraft, the Gajraj and Sutluj, being inducted. The Wing had the twin responsibility of not only creating the necessary infrastructure for full operations of the new aircraft in a very short time but also keeping the old aircraft flying and meeting the operational commitments. Through his personal supervision, meticulous advance planning and timely decisions, the Air Force was able to quickly assimilate the new aircraft and become ready to take on some of the most important airlift operations which the Air Force was called upon to execute.

In 1987, the flying task of the Wing increased manifold due to Sri Lank operations. Under the leadership of Air Commodore Ghuman, immediate step were taken to gear up servicing and maintenance facilities to keep up the temp of airlift operations.

For providing, healthy and adventurous recreation, he was instrumental starting the first Sky Diving Team in the country. The team, named Akash Ganga has already won high praise for the Air Force on each of its displays.

Air Commodore Harjit Singh Ghuman, VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.