Air Force Station Hindan, Ghaziabad, [Date] – In a historic ceremony, the Hon’ble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, conferred the prestigious President’s Standard to 45 Squadron and 221 Squadron, and the President’s Colours to 11 Base Repair Depot (BRD) and 509 Signal Unit (SU) of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
This momentous event marked the highest honour bestowed upon any military unit and marked a significant milestone in the history of the IAF.
The ceremony, held on 08 March 2024, witnessed a grand aerial salute as three Mi-171V helicopters, in ‘Dhwaj’ formation, trooped the National flag upon the arrival of the Hon’ble President. General VK Singh (Retd), Minister of State for Civil Aviation, graced the occasion alongside Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Air Staff, and senior officers of the Indian Air Force.
The ceremonial parade, commanded by Group Captain KS Sanu Nair of 11 BRD, showcased the impeccable discipline and precision of the honored units. As part of the ceremony, First Day covers for 45 Squadron, 221 Squadron, 11 Base Repair Depot, and 509 Signal Unit were released by the Hon’ble President, adding to the significance of the occasion.
The President’s Standard was received with pride and honor by Group Captain M Surendran, Commanding Officer of 45 Squadron, and Group Captain Shubhankan, Commanding Officer of 221 Squadron.
Meanwhile, Air Commodore Ashutosh Vaidya, Air Officer Commanding of 11 BRD, and Group Captain Vivek Sharma, Commanding Officer of 509 SU, received the President’s Colours, symbolizing the exemplary service and dedication of their respective units.
Addressing the parade, the Hon’ble President extended heartfelt congratulations to the units receiving the prestigious honors, commending them for their unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions to the nation.
She praised the courage and sacrifices of the Indian Air Force, both in times of war and peace, highlighting their pivotal role in safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.
Furthermore, President Murmu lauded the significant contributions of the IAF to India’s space programs, including the upcoming Gaganyaan mission, showcasing the organization’s versatility and adaptability in serving the nation’s diverse needs.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Hon’ble President expressed her pride and happiness in the achievements of women personnel in the IAF. She emphasized the equal opportunities provided to women officers in every branch of the IAF, enabling them to excel and contribute meaningfully to the defense of the nation.
The ceremony concluded on a note of pride and honor, underscoring the indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment of the Indian Air Force in serving the nation with valor, dedication, and excellence.
