Bonding within the army (English Version) Rakshak News 25 Jul 18
I recently attended the 37th raising day of my regiment, along with many veterans from all ranks, spread across the nation. The regiment had for the first time been relocated to the town where it was initially raised in Jul 81, after a strenuous tenure in high altitude.
For all of us, who were part of the team which joined on the day the regiment took its first step, it was nostalgia all the way. Memories of the time flooded back, the difficulties faced in the initial days, shortcomings of every variety, the bonding as we worked together, shoulder to shoulder to amalgamate those who came from other units into creating our own team, would never fade. Those days were long, difficulties immense, but along with all of it, there was time to interact, enjoy the banter, share the pains and jointly seek solutions.
Amongst those present was one of our members, who had become a paraplegic during operations and had travelled from Pune to join the festivities. Sharing memories including that of the time when he was injured and the rescue by his comrades, brought forth tears. Fortunately, they too were present. The spirit of the army can never be broken as this individual went on to participate in paraplegic games and won gold and silver medals at the national level.
Thoughts also flowed towards those comrades who are no longer in this world but whose memories and contributions remain enshrined in the regiment’s history. As a tribute, on each such occasion, there is always a moment of silence following which is recalling happier times, filling everyone’s eyes with tears. Those who could not attend were kept updated by those present with photographs and phone calls.
Every Indian army regiment or battalion has its own history, some going back centuries. Each has its own heroes and villains with encounters and episodes remaining a part of regimental folklore. Regiments and battalions of the army serve in every part of India and each location leaves behind moments of pleasure, sadness, success and failures. It is these moments which veterans who have served together cherish. Tales flowed through the evening with all members sharing encounters and experiences, all with a smile and an occasional tear.
Most veterans had travelled from various parts of the country to be present, meet those they served with and share their present family status. There were comrades in arms who came together after over a decade, maintaining the fondness and bonhomie as it existed when they served. Most have remained in touch with one another through multiple social media networks, however meeting one another is different in every way.
It was a lesson for those who recently joined, to learn of the sacrifices and efforts put forth by their predecessors to raise the regiment to its present stature. For any unit, these few days are when veterans share the unit’s history and growth, while inciting the serving to strive for better glory. It encourages the present generation and passes on to them, the legacy of their predecessors clearly conveying that on their shoulders lies the future, while veterans had done their bit. They learn that army units in which they have served would always open their arms to receive those who defended its colours in every adversity.
The army is the only institution which welcomes its veterans with open arms, cares for them and honours their efforts. The traditions of such occasions must always remain as it binds generations of soldiers and motivates the present to perform their duty to the nation, army and the unit. They realize that as long as they do not disgrace the establishment, they would be welcomed home with open arms and the unit would be with them through thick and thin.
About the Author
Maj Gen Harsha Kakkar
Retired Major General Indian Army