President Pranab Mukherjee to arrive Jamnagar today

Jamnagar (Gujarat)

President Pranab Mukherjee will arrive here this evening to participate in an award function of the Indian Air Force to be held tomorrow in the premises of Jamnagar Air Force station.

Governor O P Kohli and Gujarat Health Minister Nitin Patel will welcome the president at the airport here at around 7 pm this evening.

President Mukherjee as the Supreme Commander of Armed Forces will award the prestigious ‘President’s Standard’ to 119 Helicopter Unit and Presidents Colours to 28 Equipment Depot, during a ceremonial parade, tomorrow Defence Spokesperson Wing Commander Abhishek Matiman today said.

Mr. Matiman said that both the awards were the highest honour given to any unit of the armed forces. It has, so far, been given to a total of 69 units for their invaluable contribution in the protection of borders both during peace and hostilities (war).

The Air Officer Commanding of 28 Equipment Depot, Air Commodore NR Chitnis Vayu Sena Medal and Commanding Officer of 119 Helicopter Unit Wing Commander Suseem Siwach will receive the President’s Colours and Standard respectively.
The President will also release a First Day Cover of 28 Equipment Depot and 119 Helicopter Unit during the ceremony, he said.

Operational outfits of IAF become eligible for award of President’s Standard and Colours on completion of 18 years since inception. The selection is based on their performance and achievements, both during peace and hostilities. This houour is an acknowledgement of the meritorious service rendered by the selected units. It is a befitting recognition to their selfless service dedicated to the nation.

IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Ravinder Kumar Dhir, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief South Western Air Command, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Maintenance Command along with other dignitaries would also witness the ceremony. Retired air warriors and previous Commanding Officers of both the recipient units are also invited for the occasion.

– DeshGujarat