PANCHKULA: As part of the Vijay Diwas celebrations, a wreathlaying ceremony was held at the Veer Smriti at the Western Command headquarters here on Wednesday.
Lieutenant General KJ Singh, General Officer Commanding-inChief, and all ranks of Western Command, General VP Malik, ex-chief of armystaff andalarge number of veterans and serving soldiers laid wreaths in honour of valiant martyrs.
A befitting tribute was also paid to the renowned war hero of 1971 War, 2nd Lt Arun Khetrapal, by Lt Gen KJ Singh, Army Commander, Western Command, Lt Gen SR Ghosh (retd), former-Army Commander and the senior veterans and officers, JCOs and jawans of 17 Poona Horse, at Khetrapal Memorial in Chandimandir Military Station.
MARTYRS’ KIN HONOURED
Kin of tricity martyrs were also felicitated by Anita Singh, regional president, Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA).
The day is celebrated to commemorate the spectacular victory achieved by the Indian Armed Forces on both the Eastern as well as Western fronts in 1971. It was on this day 43 years ago that over 90,000 Pakistani troops surrendered to Indian armed forces, which resulted in creation of Bangladesh.
SERVING, RETIRED DEFENCE PERSONNEL FELICITATED
Senior citizens marked Vijay Divas in a novel way by felicitating the serving and retired defence personnel during a function organised at Manekshaw Auditorium, Chandimandir, to recognise their selfless services in protecting the integrity, honour and dignity of the nation.
President of the Chandigarh Senior Citizens’ Association Daljit Singh Grewal, in his welcome speech, lauded the role played by defence services in protecting integrity of the nation through round-the-clock vigil and preparedness for any eventuality – be it against external aggression, internal disorder or to provide succor during natural calamities..
A special feature of the programme was honouring of 10 veterans and serving soldiers under various categories. Lt Gen KJ Singh, in his address, praised the association for its activities in looking after interests of elderly and ensuring that senior citizens continue to play an active part in the society. He particularly appreciated its role in the field of healthcare, women empowerment and adult literacy.