Jalandhar : Vajra Corps commemorated the 9th Tri-Services Veterans' Day and the 77th Army Day with a poignant display of respect, gratitude and camaraderie. The momentous occasion honoured the selfless sacrifices and invaluable contributions of veterans who dedicated their lives to the Nation.
While Veterans' Day is observed annually on 14 January to mark the retirement of India's first Army Commander-in-Chief, late Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa, Army Day celebrated on 15 January, commemorates his historic appointment as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949.
The celebrations began with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Vajra War Memorial, where Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC) Vajra Corps, paid tribute to the fallen heroes; Veterans representing the three Services also laid wreaths, paying homage to the Bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice for the Nation. An interaction and felicitation program held at the Vajra Sainik Institute was attended by over 200 Veterans, Veer Naris and their families. Lieutenant General Chandpuria warmly welcomed the attendees and felicitated several Veer Naris in recognition of their sacrifices. This solemn occasion reverberated with inspiring tunes of "We for Veterans" played by the Army pipe band.
Grievances of Veterans and families were addressed by the Vajra Veterans Sahayata Kendra, Army Welfare Placement Organisation, Defence Pension Disbursement Office and Zila Sainik Board through on-the-spot assistance.