Gen J J Singh praises cadets for outstanding service to nation

Pune, Nov 29 (UNI) Chief of Army Staff Gen J J Singh showered praise on the NDA cadets for their outstanding record in the service of the nation after reviewing their passing-out parade here today.

Earlier, Gen Singh took the salute at the smart march past of the 111th course despite an unseasonal drizzle this morning at the Khetrapal parade ground of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla, near here.

A total of 278 cadets of the 111th course passed out after completing three years of successful training.

Addressing the cadets, the Army chief recalled the glorious deeds of valour while serving the three wings of the armed forces since the inception of the premier training institution.

Academy Cadet Adjutant (ACA) Ashok Garg was awarded the President's Gold Medal, Academy Cadet Captain (ACC) P K Singh was conferred the Silver Medal and BCA P P Jagdhane claimed the Bronze Medal for standing first, second and third respectively in the overall order of merit of the passing out course.

''Juliet'' squadron won the coveted title of Overall Champion Squadron and also received the Chief of Staff Banner.

ACC P K Singh commanded the parade. As many as 767 cadets, immaculately dressed in a blue patrol uniform in the Khetarpal parade ground were formed in 14 contingents.

SCC Vikas Ramola led the Nishan Toli, carrying the President's colour which was, presented to the NDA by the President in 1978. Lt Col D K Singh, Adjutant NDA, riding on the grey charger ''Warrior'', conducted the parade.

Despite cloudy skies, a thrilling fly-past by Super Dimona was the main attraction of the Passing Out Parade. An aerobatic display by the Sarang team of Advance Light Helicopters (ALH) and the Sagar Pawan of the Indian Navy also took part in the aerobatic display after the culmination of the parade. A traditional fly-past by six aircraft, comprising three SU-30 and three Jaguars, in VIC formations was also displayed.

Parents of the passing-out cadets, a large number of retired and serving defence and civilian dignitaries, officers, NCC cadets and school children from various parts of the country were present during the parade.

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