Group Captain SS Hothi (12215) F (P) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 20 Dec 69. He assumed the Command of Air Force Station, Jaisalmer, an important Fighter Base of SWAC, on 20 Sep 95. The Officer was tasked to rationalise the Air Defence (AD) assets and relocate these, to new sites to enhance their operational capability. The task, comprised moving of an AD Radar Unit, one Pechora SAGW flight and four TRUs which required certain work services. Normally, the work services would have taken over a year and involved substantial expenditure of about Rs 4-5 lacs. Owing to his personal liaison with the local Border Roads and Army formations, he was able to accomplish the task in few months. He also rationalised the CRC and BADC set ups which had in-built duplication of personnel and equipment. By combining the two, he established a Combined Ops Centre (COC) at the Base, which is proving to be more effective and efficient.

During the last 15 months, the Base was allotted three special tasks-conducting Fire Power Demo-95, Longewala Silver Jubilee Celebrations, and Exercise 'Vayu Shakti'. These functions were graced by Ministers and high ranking civilian and military dignitaries. Both FPD-95 and Ex 'Vayu Shakti' called for meticulous planning and close coordination at the Base level which involved reception of about 800 personnel and their movement to Pokhran weapons range. Under his dynamic leadership the Station rose to the occasion executing these events successfully. Further, the officer's personal drive and directions have resulted in immense improvement in the quality of life on the Base.

For his outstanding performance, dedication and devotion to duty of an exceptional order, the President is pleased to award "Vishisht Seva Medal" to Group Captain SS Hothi.

Group Captain Rakesh Kumar Jolly VM (14083) F (P) was commissioned in the IAF on 11 Jul 1975. He had commanded a Sqn. He has also been a Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) at Flying Instructors' School (FIS) and Directing Staff at College of Air Warfare (CAW) and presently Stn Cdr at an AF Station. He has 3900 h accident free flying. His squadron won the 'Best Fighter Sqn' trophy in 1996 and stood second in Ex 'Eklavya' the same year. He was awarded the Majithia Trophy at FIS for standing first in overall order of merit and the Vayu Sena Medal for his successful Sqn Cdr's tenure.

As Stn Cdr, the officer was responsible for orchestrating Millennium Vayu Shakti (MVS) to be witnessed by Chiefs of Air Staff from all over the world. Though postponed once and cancelled the second time, the major portion of work was actually completed on each occasion. Planning for MVS was a challenging assignment. Gp Capt Jolly displayed equanimity, sense of purpose and excellent management skills in directing work towards this major function.

A good motivator, the officer was able to mould his team on the station to efficiently support a large number of weapon system trials. The station won a variety of awards during major and minor Command exercises and was runner up in 2001 for the 'Pride of SWAC' award. Undoubtedly, this was adequate testimony to his successful stewardship.

For distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Rakesh Kumar Jolly VM.