Group Captain Gurinder Pal Singh (15417) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned on 07 July 1978. In 29 years of distinguished service, he has held several prestigious appointments that include Air Force Examiner on AN-32, Avro and Kiran aircraft at Aircrew Examining Board, CO HQ Central Air Command Communication Flight, Directing Staff at DSSC, DDPO (Transports) at Air HQ, Chief Operation Officer (COO) at AF Station Agra and CO of an AN-32 Squadron prior to his present appointment as the Chief Instructor at Fixed Wing Training Faculty (FWTF), AF Station Yelahanka.

He is an A-2 flying instructor. His leadership by example and management style were inspirational in stimulating his subordinates towards achieving higher goals and objectives. This is evident from the fact that a small unit like HQ CAC Comn Flt, under his command produced ten Qualified Flying and Navigation instructors. While in command of an AN32 Squadron, he simultaneously performed duties of COO at AF Stn Agra for almost a year. He once again exhibited the same zeal and professionalism in building up the ops status of the unit and achieved higher than the stated goals in the special role and formation flying.

He took over as Chief Instructor FWTF on 19 July 2004. His unflinching passion for excellence and professionalism was evident from the fact that in Jan 05, amidst hectic preparations for the Aero India, he wrote a service paper on review of transport pilot training at Yelahanka that effected in reduction in training duration by six months, despite an increase in solo content. The reviewed syllabi led to improvement in operational status and manning levels of the transport fleet due to early availability of transport pilots. This also facilitated increase in intake of transport pilot trainees, thereby complementing the long term induction plan of the IAF.

Under his leadership, the FWTF flew a mammoth 13,160 hrs in the year 2005, the highest ever by the faculty at Yelahanka. However, this record was surpassed in 2006 by flying 13,765 hrs, another remarkable feat. He is a systematic and meticulous individual himself, demanded high standards and exactitude in all spheres of flying activity, which resulted in award of the 'Training Command Flight Safety Trophy' to FWTF for the year 2004-05 and 2005-06, in succession. This was accomplished despite ongoing runway, tarmac and associated works services for Aero India 2005 and 2007. He was also instrumental in ensuring a sound Tarmac Management and a methodical Static Display during Aero India 2005 and 2007. His proactive participation in almost all spheres contributed significantly in smooth conduct of both the Air Shows.

For his exceptional devotion to duty, consummate leadership and exemplary professionalism, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Group Captain Gurinder Pal Singh.