Thursday, November 10, 2016

President’s Standard to 501 Signal Unit and 30 Squadron

CHANDIGARH, Nov 10
President of India, Mr Pranab Mukherjee today presented President’s Standard to 501 Signal Unit and 30 Squadron of the Indian Air Force in recognition of their selfless devotion, professionalism and dedication to service. The awards were given away at Air Force Station, Ambala in the presence of Haryana Governor Prof. Kaptan Singh Solanki, Chief Minister Mr Manohar Lal and Air Chief Marshal Mr Arup Raha. 
            While complimenting the glorious past and rich traditions of professional excellence of both the units, the President said that though we are firmly committed to peace, yet we will use all our might to protect the sovereignty of our nation. “I am confident that our valiant men and women in uniform will rise to the occasion to meet the challenges”, he added. 
            He also lauded the Indian Air Force role in humanitarian operations and added that Indian Air Force is the cutting edge of our nation’s military might. The excellent performance of its personnel in international exercises, both at home and abroad is indeed a glowing testimony to the level of training and preparedness of our Air Force. 
            He said that 501 Signal Unit has completed 52 years of service to the nation. The unit has been the pioneer of Air Defence in the northern region since its inception as an Air Defence Ground Station at Barnala. In 1971 war, despite taking a direct hit by enemy’s air action, the Unit not only recovered quickly, but also continued aiding our Air operations against the enemy. Similarly, the 30 Squadron, which was formed on November 1, 1969 in Tezpur, has an enviable operational record. The Squadron undertakes extensive Maritime strike operations in conjunction with the Indian Navy and also a pioneer in international exercise participation.  
            The President also released the special cover and brochure of 501 Signal Unit and 30 Squadron of the Indian Air Force. 
            Apart from March past, the Air warrior drill team also gave its performance during President’s Standard presentation. Other displays of the Air Force included an Advanced Light Helicopter Sarang team formation and display of SKAT. 
            Others present on this occasion included Member of Parliament Mr Rattan Lal Kataria, Health Minister Mr Anil Vij, Air Marshal, IAF Mr S.B. Deo and Mr R.K. Dhir, Air Vice Marshal Mr Arjan Subramaniam, Air Commander, Air Force Station Ambala Mr Tejinder Singh, Station Commander, Air Force Station Barnala Mr Vineet Jindal, Commanding Officer 30 Squadron Wing Commander Abhay Arun Phansalkar, Deputy Commissioner Ambala Mr Prabhjot Singh and other officers of defence forces and civil administration.
            Later on, while interacting with media persons, the Air Chief Marshal Mr Arup Raha highlighted the rich tradition and glorious standard of 501 Signal Unit and 30 Squadron, besides the air warriors of Indian Air Force.  

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