Southern Command Celebrates Vijay Diwas At National War Memorial, Pune

Pune : NP NEWS 24 ONLINE-  “Vijay Diwas 2018”was celebrated on 16 December 2018 at National War Memorial, Southern Command, Pune. This day marks the splendid victory achieved by India over Pakistan 47 years ago. The “GREATEST VICTORY EVER” saw the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent nation and India rose as a regional power to reckon with. With this decisive victory over a formidable opponent, the Armed Forces of India once again affirmed themselves as a strong component of National power.

The 1971 Indo Pak war began with Pakistan launching pre-emptive air strikes against 11 Indian airbases on 03 December 1971. The war was forced upon due to widespread genocide of people of East Pakistan carried out by an oppressive military regime under General Yahya Khan of Pakistan.

The war, which was short and intense, was fought on both Eastern and Western fronts. The 13 day war resulted in a complete surrender of Pakistani forces and the creation of Bangladesh. The Indian Armed Forces reigned supreme over the Pakistani military in the battlefield.

During the war, Southern Command valiantly defended the borders of the nation against any action by Pakistan. The notable battles which were fought in the area of responsibility of the Southern Army included the famous battle of Longewala where Pakistan’s armoured forces were destroyed by resolute Indian troops.

The raid on Pakistani town of Chachro carried out by soldiers of the renowned 10 Para Commando Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel (Later Brigadier) Bhawani Singh, was another famous military action. These battles have gone down the pages of history as fine examples of grit, determination and bravery of our soldiers.

The solemn ceremony on 16 December 2018 was a token of remembrance for those brave sons of India who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. The memorial service which had the military band in attendance, included rendition of patriotic songs by children from various schools and prayers by the religious teachers of the Armed Forces to pay homage to the martyrs.

Wreaths were laid by Senior Veterans of Pune which included Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers and Other Ranks. Senior serving Officers of the three services present in Pune also paid homage to the martyrs by laying wreaths.

On behalf of the citizens of Pune, Mr Siddharth Dhende, the Deputy  Mayor of Pune alongwith Mr Sanjay Singh Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner (General Administration) and Mr Bachchan Singh, Deputy Commissioner of Police also laid the wreaths at the War Memorial. The final wreath as a mark of respect to the martyrs was laid by Lieutenant General SK Saini, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Yudh Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command.

The silence observed by all present echoed skywards to the martyrs of this great nation as an appropriate tribute to their steely resolve to defend India at all costs.

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