In a heartwarming tribute that celebrates a life of service and leadership, Wing Commander Vijay Shrotriya (Retd.) shares cherished memories of his National Defence Academy coursemate, Suresh Kalmadi, highlighting the remarkable qualities that made him stand out from his earliest days as a cadet.

The two trained together in the prestigious 25th course of the NDA, which ran from January 1961 to December 1963, forming bonds that would last a lifetime. What emerges from Shrotriya's recollections is a portrait of a man whose natural talents for organization and bringing people together were evident from the very beginning.

"Suresh was an organizer by instinct," recalls the 82-year-old Wing Commander with evident warmth. He remembers Kalmadi as an energetic and approachable cadet who excelled at organizing meetings and functions, whether at squadron or station level. This innate ability to coordinate events and unite people became his defining characteristic throughout his varied and accomplished career.

After completing his NDA training, Kalmadi pursued his passion for aviation at the Air Force Flying College in Jodhpur and Pilot Training Establishment in Allahabad. He was commissioned into the Indian Air Force in December 1964 as a transport pilot, embarking on a decade of distinguished service to the nation.

As a pilot, Kalmadi primarily flew the Fairchild Packet aircraft, a vital transport plane used for air maintenance sorties and paradrops. His service included active duty during both the 1965 and 1971 wars, demonstrating his commitment to defending the nation during critical periods. Throughout his posting in Agra and other locations, his organizational talents continued to shine as he coordinated numerous squadron and station-level activities.

His military career came full circle when he returned to his alma mater, the NDA, serving as an instructor with the Air Force Training Team. This role allowed him to inspire and guide the next generation of air force officers, passing on his knowledge and passion.

Retiring as a Flight Lieutenant in December 1974 after ten years of dedicated service, Kalmadi had already set his sights on new horizons. Even during his air force days, he had expressed his vision of utilizing his organizational skills in public life and business, demonstrating the forward-thinking mindset that characterized his approach to life.

True to his word, he established a hotel business and Sai Services, successfully transitioning his military discipline and organizational prowess into the civilian sector. His subsequent entry into politics allowed him to use his gift for bringing people together on an even larger scale.

Wing Commander Shrotriya's final meetings with his old friend remain treasured memories. Twenty years ago, when their coursemate General J.J. Singh served as Chief of Army Staff, Kalmadi organized a memorable reunion at his farm for all their coursemates—another example of his talent for creating connections and celebrating camaraderie.

This touching tribute reminds us that behind every public figure is a story of dedication, natural talent, and genuine human connection. Suresh Kalmadi's journey from NDA cadet to IAF pilot to public servant showcases how individual gifts, when nurtured and applied with purpose, can leave a lasting positive impact on countless lives.