Nation observes Armed Forces Flag Day

New Delhi, Dec 7 (UNI) The nation today observed the Armed Forces Flag Day to remember the sacrifices made by gallant soldiers in defending the territorial integrity of the country.

The country saluted her martyrs, honoured the brave and expressed solidarity and support for welfare of widows, children, disabled and ailing ex-servicemen on the occasion.

Director General Resettlement (DGR), Maj Gen SG Chatterji, pinned the Armed Forces Flag on President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari, Defence Minister AK Antony and the three Service Chiefs, the Defence Ministry said.

Various functions were held across the country in which students, NCC cadets and government officials participated.

Funds mobilised on the Flag Day were utilised for giving grants to various welfare institutions, including Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre, Cheshire Homes, St Dunstan's After Care Organisation for Blind and construction of war memorial hostels, the Ministry added.

UNI