10th Combat Aviators batch POP held at CATS

Nashik, Nov 15 (UNI) The Passing out Parade of the tenth batch of Combat Aviators to graduate under the aegis of the Army Aviation Alma Mater - the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS), Nashik, was held here today.

The 39 officers from different arms of army, who marched proudly past the dais with the true Aviation credo 'Wings' on their chest, looked completely 'Swift and Sure'.

Lt Gen K R Rao, Commandant, School of Artillery, presenting the 'Wings' to the successful young officers, reminded the future aviators of the mammoth responsibility and expectations of the environment from them.

''With more than 40 per cent of Aviation units operationally committed, intense counter insurgency environment is a routine for the aviators in Northern and Eastern Commands. Be it Sri Lanka, Siachen or Congo, the Army Aviators earned laurels on a daily basis and have a gallant history. Today, everyone, from a foot soldier to the field Army Commanders, look up at you with confidence and pride,'' Lt Gen Rao said.

Announcing the inevitable expansion of the Army Aviation to keep pace with the futuristic battlefield scenario, the General spoke about the enhancement of the current training facility, to include state-of-the-art training aids and simulators to enhance the training potential of the elite school.

Briefing media persons, Brig T S Gill, Commandant, CATS, said that Army Aviation has proved to be the National mainstay in disaster management. Army Aviation being the 'First in and Last out' anywhere in the country, has saved many a lives and acted as saviors from the sky when their fellow countrymen needed them the most, Brig Gill said.

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