PUNE: To honour the supreme sacrifice of the Infantry personnel who have taken part in campaigns and operations of the Indian Army, a solemn wreath-laying ceremony was organised by Southern Command at National War Memorial, Pune on Saturday to commemorate the 72nd Infantry Day.
Lieutenant General SK Saini, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, laid the wreath in remembrance and honour of all those members of the Infantry fraternity, who made the supreme sacrifice for the country. Lieutenant General RV Kulkarni (retd), laid the wreath on behalf of the veterans. The event was attended by many serving and retired officers, Junior Commissioned Officers, other ranks and their families. RK Dadkar, war widow of Late Major RK Dadkar, Vir Chakra, Lineeta Tathawade, war widow of Late Major Pradeep Tathawade, Kirti Chakra and other Veer Naris were also present.
Lt Gen Saini conveyed his appreciation to all ranks and families of the infantry fraternity and urged them to continue to serve with dedication and uphold the values of Indian Army.
October 27 is celebrated as Infantry Day by the Indian Army as it was on this day in 1947 that the First Battalion of the Sikh Regiment was airlifted from Delhi and landed at Srinagar to liberate Kashmir Valley from the invading tribals who were supported by Pakistan Army. The Infantrymen have been a part of all campaigns, wars and operations that the country has participated so far. The wars include participation in World War I, World War II, 1947-48, 1962, 1965 and 1971. The various operations in which they have participated include Operation PAWAN, Operation VIJAY, Operation PARAKRAM, Operation MEGHDOOT, Operation RAKSHAK and Operation RHINO.
