Air Marshal Anand Ramdas Pandit AVSM, DFC (1707) was commissioned in the Flying (Pilot) of the IAF in September 1941. In World War II he distinguished himself as a fighter Recce Pilot and was awarded the DFC. He graduated from Defence Services Staff College and, later, successfully attended the National Defence College. He has served with distinction in various operational, Command and Staff appointments at different units and Formations. Apart from being the Director of Operations at Air Headquarters, he was the Air Officer Commanding Headquarters Western India for three years, responsible for joint planning and conduct of all air operations with the Navy. Thereafter, he served extremely creditably as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, making a significant contribution in the Training of officers and Airmen of all branches and trades. During his assignment as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Maintenance Command for three years from March 1973 to February 1976, Air Marshal Pandit was able to improve the efficiency of that Command. With painstaking efforts, initiative and exceptional devotion to duty, he pursued various projects with untiring zeal and ensured their successful completion on scheduled. Despite shortage of spares, he was able to improve the performance of Base Repair Depots in the overhaul of engines and aircraft. In the Equipment Depots he was able to introduce new ideas and improve their functioning by streamlining the procedures and removing irritating bottlenecks. During his long service of 35 years, in every assignment or task entrusted to him he achieved excellent results and displayed deep sense of loyalty and responsibility. Presently, he is holding the appointment of Vice Chief of the Air Staff, responsible for preparation and review of Air Force plan framing the Air Staff requirements, formation of training policies and control of Air Force projects. In this he has been able to bring many improvements and economy having far reaching effects. Air Marshal Pandit has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.