Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 15: The Indian Army today celebrated its 70th Army Day and on the solemn occasion, a wreath laying ceremony was organised in the morning at ‘Balidan Stambh’ War Memorial located at Bahuwali Rakh, Jammu, to pay homage to gallant soldiers who had made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.
The wreaths were placed at eternal flame by Maj Gen Sanjay Singh, General Officer Commanding, Tiger Division and Subedar Major & Honorary Captain Bana Singh, PVC.
A mini marathon was also organized in which over 500 children from various schools of Jammu took part.
Army Day is celebrated on January 15 every year to pay homage and remembrance to the brave Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in protecting and upholding the territorial integrity and sanctity of Indian union. The day also marks the start of Indian era in managing of military by India, wherein the first Indian Army Chief General KM Cariappa succeeded the British Army General Roy Butcher.
To commemorate the occasion a Pipe Band display by Army bands and a special ‘Light & Sound Show’ were organized in the evening.
Lt Gen YVK Mohan, General Officer Commanding, Rising Star Corps, graced the occasion. The event was open to public and the spectators were enthralled with the synchronised display by pipe bands of the Indian Army who played scintillating martial tunes.
The Western Command also celebrated Army Day at Chandimandir by paying homage to the gallant soldiers who laid down their lives for the Nation.
The occasion was marked by paying of homage and a wreath laying Ceremony at ‘Veer Smriti’, Chandimandir. Lt Gen GS Dhillon, Chief of Staff, Headquarters Western Command laid the wreath on behalf of all ranks of Western Army, paying rich tributes to the valiant martyrs. He exhorted upon all ranks to uphold the saga of valour, sacrifice, duty and the highest traditions of the Indian Army. On this day the Western Army reaffirms its commitment and firm resolve in ensuring safety, security and sanctity of borders as well as aid to the civil authorities.
Meanwhile, Rashtriya Rifles unit of Indian Army based at Bhaderwah in Jammu region today celebrated ‘Army Day’ to pay homage to the martyrs, who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
The function in which, beside officers and Jawans of Rashtriya Rifles Bhaderwah, ex-servicemen, NCC cadets, students, family members of martyrs and representatives from civil society participated was held at Lake View resort Gatha, Bhaderwah, where the memorial of Martyr Subedar Chunni Lal (Ashok Chakra, Vir Chakra, Sena Medal – the most decorated soldier in the history of Indian Army) is situated.
A large number of dignitaries, ex-servicemen and service personnel participated in the celebrations. The function started with the wreath laying ceremony by the officers of Army and ex-servicemen at the memorial of martyr Chunni Lal followed by the Army Officer’s interaction with ex-servicemen and the family members of martyrs, in which Army assured full help and cooperation to them.
On the occasion special gifts including cash were also distributed among the family members of martyrs. A free Medical camp was also organised for ex-servicemen and the families of martyrs, in which civil and Army doctors examined nearly 100 patients.
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