22 armymen get service awards

A total of 22 officers and other ranks of the Northern Command were given gallantry and distinguished service awards on the occasion of the Army Day today.
The awards were given by GOC-in-C, Northern Command, Lt Gen Sanjiv Chachra at a ceremony at Sangha Auditorium in Akhnoor, 30 kms from here, a Defence spokesman said.
Chachra presented two Yudh Seva Medals, 12 Sena Medals (Gallantry), one Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry), five Sena Medal (Distinguished) and two Vishisht Seva Medals, the spokesman said.
The commander also presented GOC-in-C Northern Command's Unit Citation to 18 units for their outstanding performance in 2013.

Speaking on the occasion, Chachra appreciated all ranks of the Northern Command for their dedication and devotion to duty and congratulated those who were decorated for bravery and distinguished service, the spokesman said.
He urged all ranks, ex-servicemen, civilians and their families to dedicate themselves to the cause of the nation.

The commander acknowledged the contribution of civilians in assisting the Army during operations.
He interacted with the civilians injured in mine accidents and assured them of full support and help from Army, the spokesman said.
The commander also awarded six porters, eight civilians and five ex-servicemen for their exemplary service to the nation.

The ceremony was attended by senior civil and military dignitaries.
Lt Gen D S Hooda, General Officer Commanding White Knight Corps Maj Gen A K Dhar, General Officer Commanding Crossed Swords Divisions were among those present.
On the occasion, President of the Family Welfare Organization of Northern Command Anshul Chachra, Sanjiv Chachra's wife, interacted with families of the soldiers.
Appreciating their efforts, she presented medallion to five women and six promising students of the service personnel.
The Army Day is celebrated every year on January 15 to commemorate the appointment of Lt Gen (later Field Marshal) K M Cariappa as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, succeeding Sir Francis Butcher, the last British Commander in 1949.