Excelsior Correspondent
AKHNOOR, Jan 15: A total of 22 officers and other ranks of the Northern Command were given gallantry and distinguished service awards on the occasion of the Army Day here today.
The awards were given by GOC-in-C, Northern Command, Lt Gen Sanjiv Chachra, at a ceremony held at Sangha Auditorium in Akhnoor, about 30 kms from Jammu.
The Northern Army Commander presented two Yudh Seva Medals, 12 Sena Medals (Gallantry), one Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry), five Sena Medal (Distinguished) and two Vishisht Seva Medals.
The Commander also presented GOC-in-C Northern Command’s Unit Citation to 18 units for their outstanding performance during 2013.
While speaking on the occasion, Lt Gen Chachra commended all ranks of the Northern Command for their dedication and devotion to duty and congratulated those who were decorated for bravery and distinguished service.
He urged all ranks, ex-servicemen, civilians and their families to rededicate themselves to the cause of the nation.
The commander acknowledged the contribution of civilians in assisting the Army during operation. He interacted with the civilians injured in mine accidents and assured them of full support and help from Army.
The commander also awarded six porters, eight civilians and five ex-servicemen for their exemplary service to the nation.
The ceremony was attended by senior civil and military dignitaries.
General Officer Commanding White Knight Corps (16 Corps) , Lt Gen D S Hooda, General Officer Commanding Cross Swords Division (10 Div) Maj Gen A K Dhar were also present.
On the occasion, President of the Family Welfare Organization of Northern Command Anshul Chachra, Sanjiv Chachra’s wife, interacted with families of the soldiers.
Appreciating their efforts, she presented medallion to five women and six promising students of the service personnel.
Army Day was also celebrated by Rashtriya Rifles battalions under Romeo Force in Poonch and Rajouri and Bhaderwah area ( Delta Force) of district Doda.
The Army Day is celebrated every year on January 15 to commemorate the appointment of Lt Gen (later Field Marshal) K M Cariappa as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, succeeding Sir Francis Butcher, the last British Commander in 1949.
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