As many as 158 young and energetic flight cadets, including 29 women, on Saturday formally joined into the mainstream of Indian Air Force, when Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R K Dhawan, on behalf of the President of India, awarded commission to them today at an impressive Combined Graduation Parade held at the prestigious Air Force Academy at Dundigal near Hyderabad.
The passing out parade marked the culmination of one year rigorous basic and professional training at the Academy and other places including Air Force Stations located at Hakimpet, Begumpet in Hyderabad and Yelahanka in Karnataka apart from Air Force Administrative College Coimbatore. The newly inducted flight cadets will be allotted various branches of Indian Air Force like flying, navigation, air controlling, logistics, administration, accounts and education.
Flying officer Sonu Barak of the flying branch, who was the parade commander, awarded President’s Plaque and the Chief of Air Staff ‘Sword of Honour’ for standing first in over all merit in pilot course, while flying officer Kuldeep Singh and flying officer Bijender Bhagat were awarded President’s Plaque for standing first in ground duty branch and navigation branch respectively.
In his address, after reviewing the parade, the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R K Dhawan congratulated the cadets to be a part of one of the finest air force in the world. He said that as young leader, they have to build up the quality with credibility and integrity and continue to strive for excellence and meet all challenges. He emphasized the cadets that the word ‘impossible’ should not be in your dictionary. Admiral Dhawan focused on the importance of the core values of the IAF, Mission, Integrity and Excellence.
The passing out parade ceremony culminated with the breathtaking aerobatic display of ‘Sarang Helicopter team’ and Su 30 fighter jet and fly-past of Pilatus and Kiran training aircrafts have captured the attention of the audience.
——————–INN