Jammu, January 15 (Scoop News) –The General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, Lt Gen KT Parnaik today commended all ranks for their dedication and devotion to duty in the highest tradition of the Indian Army and congratulated those who had been decorated for bravery and distinguished service.
Lt Gen KT Parnaik while speaking in a function of Army Day, urged all ranks, ex- servicemen, civilians and their families to rededicate themselves to the cause of their nation. The Army Commander complimented the soldiers for their selfless service and dedication in the most difficult terrain and weather.
Earlier gallantry and distinguished service awards were presented to 62 soldiers of the Northern Command at an impressive and graceful Investiture Ceremony held at Sangha Auditorium of Crossed Swords Division at Akhnoor.
The General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, Lt Gen KT Parnaik, presented 57 Sena Medals (Gallantry) and five Vishisht Seva Medals to the awardees. General Officer Commanding -in -Chief, Northern Command’s Appreciation Cards were also presented to twenty two units from different arms and services which excelled in their respective operational duties in last one year. The Investiture Ceremony was attended by senior civil, military and para-military dignitaries. Lt Gen JP Nehra, General Officer Commanding White Knight Corps and Maj Gen Rakesh Sharma, General Officer Commanding Crossed Swords Division were among those present.
The Army Day is celebrated every year on 15 Jan to commemorate the appointment of Lt Gen (later Field Marshal) KM Kariappa as Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in place of Sir Francis Butcher, the last British Commander in 1949. Since then it has been a tradition to present the gallantry and distinguished service awards to the deserving soldiers on this day. The awards are presented by the Army Commanders in each of the Commands of the Indian Army.
President, Family Welfare Organisation of Northern Command, Mrs Anagha Parnaik also interacted with the families of brave soldiers and encouraged them to continue their unstinted support to their spouses in performance of their duty.