(MOREPIC1)(MOREPIC2)(MOREPIC3) Vikram Ditya Sharma/Ferozepur
The historic battlefield, remembered as the “Graveyard of Patton Tanks,” once again became the focal point of national remembrance and pride as the Golden Arrow Division under the aegis of Vajra Corps of Indian Army, commemorated the Diamond Jubilee of Indian Army’s victory during the India-Pakistan War of 1965 with solemnity and grandeur at Asal Uttar on Tuesday.
The event was attended by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria along with Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding in Chief, Western Command and other military commanders, War Veterans, Veer Naris, civil dignitaries, students and local citizens in large numbers.
The commemoration paid tribute to the gallant soldiers whose indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice during the Battle of Asal Uttar and Battle of Barki turned the tide of the 1965 War in favour of the Nation. Special homage was paid to Company Quarter Master Havildar (CQMH) Abdul Hamid, Param Vir Chakra (Posthumous) whose unmatched bravery in destroying advanced and upgraded enemy tanks and the supreme sacrifice, continues to inspire generations.
(SUBHEAD)During the event, war veterans and Veer Naris were honoured in recognition of their sacrifices besides the Archives-cum-Museum was inaugurated as a permanent repository of the 1965 War, preserving the history, artifacts and stories of valour for posterity.
The “Hamid Gallery”, dedicated to the memory of CQMH Abdul Hamid was also inaugurated and opened to the public as a mark of gratitude to one of India’s bravest and fearless celebrated heroes. In addition, a 72 feet high National Flag was also hoisted at the War Memorial on this occasion by Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding in Chief, Western Command.
While expressing his profound gratitude to the Indian Army for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty of the Nation and for preserving India’s proud military heritage, Governor Kataria said that the inauguration of ‘Archives-cum-Museum’ and ‘Hamid Gallery’ would not only immortalize the heroes of 1965 but also serve as a source of education and knowledge and inspiration for future generations.
The governor also commended Army and Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH) for the initiative to promote border tourism and strengthen the connect of citizens with the land of warriors, thereby deepening the sense of national pride.
The governor said that the Nation reposes in the Indian Army to meet any future challenges, be they traditional or emerging. He affirmed that as India marches ahead into the era of “Amrit Kaal”, the Army will continue to play a pivotal role in National Security, in fostering unity, and inspiring the youth to dedicate themselves to service of the Nation with courage, discipline and integrity.
