Squadron Leader Raghu Nath Dass was commissioned in Indian Air Force in the year 1963, and from that time held many vital assignments with distinction in missile and photo units.

The officer was posted to the Transport Training Wing of the Air Force in May 77 for the duties of Senior Electrical officer. Within a short time of his arrival he organized fully established electrical and instrument work shop which could effectively cater for the 1st and 2nd line requirements of the three different types of aircraft serviced at the Wing. These facilities drastically reduced the down time of the aircraft for periodic inspections and snag rectification.

He organized a fully equipped R&SS with qualified men and supporting equipment capable of periodic inspections and also the intricate and detailed servicing like Check II A and Check II B of HS-748 aircraft. The result of his efforts are the proud figures of 43 and 47 Check As, and 11 and 12 Check I inspections in the year 1978 and 1979 respectively which stand out as an exceptional performance and formed the backbone for the fast turn round of aircraft and consequent availability to meet the flying task.

Due to the enhanced commitment of training and transport support role of HS-748 aircraft, number of aircraft were falling due for the elaborate and stringent Check II A and Check II B servicings during 1979 for which aircraft needs to be ferried out to a Base Repair Depot. This task had to be met with the resources of the station itself as the overhaul line of a Base Repair Depot Air Force was full to induct any further aircraft. With sound technical knowledge, professional skill of a high order, creative mind and sound organizing ability, the officer achieved the near impossible results of completing 3 Check II A and 2 Check II B inspections in the year 1979-80. The high rate of serviceability of aircraft, exceptional flight safety record and nil accident rate achieved by the station in the year 1979 give a befitting tribute to the flight safety consciousness and stringent quality control technique adopted by this officer in aircraft servicing.

Throughout Squadron Leader Raghu Nath Dass displayed determination, zeal, tenacity and devotion to duty. He has thus rendered distinguished service of a high order and for this Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to him.