Celebrations in Commemoration of 75 Glorious years of Independence, INS Angre

In connection with the ongoing celebrations in commemoration of 75 glorious years of independence, an event to honour the Brave Sons of India was organised by INS Angre. The Commanding Officer, Commodore Ashutosh Ridhorkar presided over the function and hosted family members of gallantry awardees (Late) Lieutenant General Francis Dias, PVSM, AVSM, VrC, represented by his wife, Mrs Selda Dias and their granddaughter, Ms Mihika Miranda, and (Late) Captain R Subramanian represented by his father, Mr S Ramachandran. The afternoon proceeded with sharing of tales of valour exhibited by the heroes in the face of adversities. As a mark of respect to the courageous officers, and as an endeavour to encourage the youth of the nation to devote themselves to the service of the motherland, citations in respect of the gallantry awards presented to the veterans was recited. Lieutenant General Dias, of the Gorkha Regiment, a war veteran who was the reason for the capture of Bogra Town during the 1971 War, was remembered in reverence, for his selfless service that aided in establishing the supremacy of the Indian Armed Forces in the Indo Pak War. Mrs Dias spoke of the stories of the brave General, whilst also recalling the pain of losing not only loved ones from one's own blood family, but also from their regimental family. She shared the life lessons she learnt as a Veer Naari, and inspired one and all present. Captain R Subramanian made the supreme sacrifice when he led his team from the front, in an operation in the Haphruda Forest in J&K, where he pinned down three terrorists, with absolutely no regard to his own safety and life. As fate would have it, the day also marked the birth anniversary of the martyr. He was remembered fondly for his devotion and fierce loyalty to the nation. The families were presented with a memento, as a token of appreciation for their gracious presence, and the event was concluded on a solemn note.