The Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) was held at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, Hyderabad, on 14 December 2024, marking the successful culmination of pre-commissioning training for 204 Flight Cadets of the Flying and Ground Duty branches of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The ceremony, presided over by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), served as a proud milestone in the cadets’ journey to becoming commissioned officers.
Indian Air Force Academy Passing Out Parade 14 November 2024
- A total of 178 men and 26 women graduated, including nine officers each from the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, along with one officer from a friendly foreign country who were awarded their ‘Wings’ upon completing flying training.
- This historic parade also witnessed the commissioning of the first batch of Weapon Systems branch officers, a pivotal development in the IAF’s operational landscape.
Highlights of the Parade
- Grand Ceremonial Events:
- The CAS, received by Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, and Air Marshal S Shrinivas, Commandant, AFA, reviewed the parade after a General Salute and a spectacular march past.
- The pinnacle of the event was the Commissioning Ceremony, where the graduating cadets received their ranks and took an oath administered by the Commandant of the Academy to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and honor.
- Recognitions and Awards:
- Flying Officer Parag Dhankar from the Flying branch received the prestigious President’s Plaque and the Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour for excelling in the overall order of merit in the pilots’ course.
- Flying Officer Ram Prasad Gurjar was awarded the President’s Plaque for standing first in the overall order of merit in the Ground Duty branch.
- Awe-Inspiring Displays:
- A synchronized flypast by Pilatus PC-7 MkII, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak aircraft captivated the audience.
- The event concluded with spectacular aerobatics by the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT), and displays by the PC-7 MK-II and SU-30 MKI aircraft.
Inspiring Address by the Chief of the Air Staff
The CAS complimented the graduating cadets on their transformation into disciplined and confident leaders. He emphasized:
- The evolving significance of aerospace power in modern warfare.
- The criticality of teamwork and cohesion in the armed forces.
- The importance of remaining fighting fit, working with integrity, and dedicating oneself fully to the service of the nation.
In his motivational address, he reminded the officers of their responsibility as future leaders, urging them to uphold the ethos, honor, and traditions of the Indian Air Force.
Emotional and Memorable Moments
The parade culminated with the “Pratham Pag”, where newly commissioned officers marched in two columns to the resonant tunes of martial music. The first salute from their juniors added a deeply emotional touch to the occasion, marking the beginning of a life dedicated to service, honor, and pride.
The Combined Graduation Parade 2024 at AFA Dundigal celebrated the journey of young cadets transforming into the future leaders of the IAF. It was a day etched in pride and history, symbolizing a commitment to safeguarding the nation’s skies. For the newly commissioned officers, it was a significant milestone that marked the beginning of an honorable and fulfilling career in service to the nation.
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