The President of India and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Smt Pratibha Devi Singh Patil conferred the Presidential Standards to two premiers combat unit of the Indian Air Force - 49 Squadron and 107 Helicopter Unit at an impressive presentation parade held at the Jodhpur airbase.
The Standards were received in the presence of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal PV Naik by the Commanding Officer of 49 Squadron Group Captain R Dineshan and Commodore Commandant Air Commodore PK Singh and subsequently by Commanding Officer of 107 Helicopter Unit Wing Commander J Yadav and Commodore Commandant Air Vice Marshal PK Roy.
It gives me immense pleasure to be with you at Air Force Station, Jodhpur a premier Indian Air Force Base, to award Standards to 49 Squadron and 107 Helicopter Unit. Both have a rich history of valour and courage and have rendered distinguished service to the nation since their inception. These two units have put in tremendous efforts as well as followed rigorous discipline in pursuit of excellence and set an example for others to emulate. For their selfless devotion, professionalism and courage in the face of the adversary, the nation honours them today with a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation, says President Mrs Pratibha Devi Singh Patil on this occasion.
An impressive parade comprising of 415 Air Warriors from both units and those from Jodhpur airbase led by the Parade Commander Captain SC Dsouza followed the Standards Presentation.
A fly past by MIG-21, Jaguar, SU-30 enthralled the onlookers. Major attraction apart from the Presidents Standard Presentation was the scintillating and unique display by Air Warrior Drill Team who presented a series of thrilling drill coupled with dexterous handing of rifle, exhibiting highest skill of agility flexibility and strength.
The President later interacted with the Air Warriors of the two units and others from the airbase. Among the senior dignitaries present included Governor of Rajasthan, Mrs Prabha Rau and erstwhile Ruler Shri Gaj Singh. Several other senior serving and retired officers were also present at the ceremony.
Address the media personnel later, on the sidelines of the standard presentation, the Chief of the Air Staff replied to a flurry of questions fielded by correspondents of the National and local media on a range of issues relating to Air Force.
