Excelsior Correspondent
![GOC-in-C Northern Command Lt Gen DS Hooda decorating an officer during Investiture Ceremony at Udhampur on Monday.](http://www.dailyexcelsior.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/page3-5-190x300.jpg)
UDHAMPUR, Mar 2: Twenty nine Army officers and other ranks were honoured on the occasion of the Investiture Ceremony by the GOC-in-C Northern Command, Lt Gen D S Hooda here today.
The Gallantry and Distinguished Service awards were presented by Lt Gen Hooda in presence of several top Army officers of the Command in a glittering ceremony today.
The Army Commander presented 18 Sena Medals (Gallantry),3 Sena Medal (Distinguished Service), Two Yudh Seva Medals and Six Vishisht Seva Medals. The Lt Gen Hooda also presented GOC-in-C’s Unit Appreciation to 26 Army units for their outstanding performance in the year 2014.
A total of 11 civilians including a journalist from Kargil Ghulam Nabi Raza and a porter Padma Skalzan from Mushkoh valley Drass were also felicitated for their outstanding assistance rendered to the Army during the floods in the State. The Investiture Ceremony was attended by senior civil, military and para-military dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion, the Army Commander commended all ranks of the Northern Command for their dedication and devotion to duty in the highest traditions of the Indian Army. He congratulated those who were decorated for bravery and distinguished service. He also urged all ranks, ex-servicemen, civilians and their families to rededicate themselves to the cause of the Nation. The General Officer appreciated the civilians for displaying a close bonhomie during the rescue and relief operations undertaken by the Army during floods last year.