President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday awarded standards to two units of the Indian Air Force — 223 Squadron (Tridents) and 117 Helicopter unit (Himalayan Dragon) — for their history of excellence.
“Proud to be Supreme Commander of the magnificent men and women of our valiant Air Force…The contribution of Punjab to our armed forces has been enormous. That is why, in my role as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, I am truly glad that my first visit to Punjab has brought me to the Air Force Station in Adampur”, the President tweeted from his official Twitter handle after the event.
Kovind, in his address during his first visit to Punjab as the President, recalled the glorious legacy of the Indian armed forces in protecting the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country.
He said that every citizen has a sound sleep back at home because they are aware that valiant soldiers are safeguarding the borders of the country.
Kovind, accompanied by Punjab Governor VP Singh Badnore, and Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa other than several dignitaries, said that he was fortunate to be in Punjab, the land of sainiks (soldiers) and sants.
Speaking at the frontier air force base after awarding standards to two squadrons of the Indian Air Force at an impressive ceremony, he said that while the country remained committed to peace, it is determined to
use all its might to protect the sovereignty of the nation.
“Though we remain firmly committed to peace, we are determined to use all our might to protect the sovereignty of our nation. Our armed forces, exemplified by our air warriors, reflect our national resolve. And they secure the values embodied in our Constitution,” he said.
He said that the Air Force Station Adampur is among the “oldest and best-known bases of our Air Force”, and it was the setting of great heroism during the wars of 1947, 1965 and 1971.
“This is my first visit to Punjab after taking over as President of India. This is the land of sainiks and sants. Especially fortunate to come here in November, a month that marks birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji and martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur ji," the President said.
“The 223 Squadron is one of the few that remains alert 365 days a year. It truly lives up to its motto of Vijaya Amoghastraha, which means the Ultimate Weapon for Victory,” he said in another tweet.
“In Operation Rahat, Operation Megh Rahat, and numerous other humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, 117 Helicopter Unit has worked tirelessly in helping civilians,” he added.
Earlier, the President took the salute at an impressive march past. He awarded the standards to officers of both the units. The IAF put up an impressive aerobatic display in which various aircraft, including Hawks and Tarang helicopters, took part.
The President released an information brochure on both the units. The IAF gave an impressive aerial display on the occasion.