175 officers commissioned into Indian Air Force

New Delhi, Dec 29 (ANI): A total of 175 flight cadets, including 30 women flight cadets, passed out of the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, Hyderabad, as newly commissioned officers to join the Indian Air Force in respective branches today.

The Chief of Army Staff, General VK Singh, was the Reviewing Officer for the Combined Graduation Parade, which marked the culmination of basic as well as professional training of the flight cadets, who underwent training at Air Force Academy Dundigal, Hyderabad, Air Force Administrative College, Coimbatore, Air Force Station Hakimpet , Air Force Station Yehlanka and Air Force Station Begumpet.

In his address to the newly commissioned officers, General VK Singh impressed upon building up of intrinsic qualities of leadership, by placing the highest value to honor, integrity and selflessness.

He exhorted the newly commissioned officers to place the interest of the country, the service and subordinates before one's own, always and every time He also emphasized on transcending all ethnic, religious and regional differences in order to promote a stronger India through an integrated approach.

Flying Officer Varun Agarwal, who commanded the parade, was awarded the President's Plaque and Chief of Air Staff 'Sword of Honour ' for standing first in overall order of merit in Pilot Course.

Flying Officer Kamal Kumar Mishra was awarded the President's Plaque for standing first in overall order of merit in Ground Duties Branch. Flying Officer Prasun Kumar Singh was awarded the President's Plaque for standing first in overall order of merit in Navigation branch.

The Parade also saw the participation of Air Warrior Drill Team, which thrilled the audience by its smart and synchronized drill movements. There was a traditional fly past by Hawk, AN-32, Dornier and Kiran aircraft.

An exhilarating and outstanding low level aerobatic display by SU-30 aircraft, kept the audience spellbound.

A breath taking dare devil display by Akashganga paratroopers was appreciated by one and all. A large number of retired and serving defence officers, civilian dignitaries, service personnel and their families witnessed the colourful grand parade.

General VK Singh had arrived at Air Force Academy on Wednesday and was received by Air Marshal D Kukreja, Air Officer Commanding- in-Chief, Training Command, and Air Marshal PR Sharma, Commandant, Air Force Academy.

He attended a ceremonial Guest Night with passing out Flight Cadets and their parents wherein he awarded the trophies and medals to the cadets who excelled in their respective branches, as has been the custom. (ANI)