Gopalpur: The Air Defence Regiment located at Gopalpur Military Station celebrated its platinum jubilee in style from April 1 to 4.
The celebration, which commenced with the special Sainik Sammelan by Odisha Governor Prof. Shri Ganeshi Lal, was followed by a number of commemorative events which saw enthusiastic participation of serving and veteran soldiers, along with their families.
The Governor addressed the troops at Gopalpur Military Station, commending them for their dedicated service and lauding their contributions to the national security.
Prof. Lal also took time to meet serving soldiers and Agniveers and asked about their experiences.
He made a special mention of the 75 glorious years completed by the Air Defence Regiment in service of the nation.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extended his good wishes to all ranks & families, and exhorted them to rededicate themselves to safeguard national integrity and continue to perform their task with fortitude, dedication & professionalism.
Senior officials of the Corps of Army Air Defence and a galaxy of veterans, their spouses and representatives from other Arms & Services of Armed Forces attended the ceremony.
The Air Defence (AD) Regiment at Gopalpur was the first AD regiment to be raised in Independent India, by Brig. (then Major) Gurupartab Singh at Khadakwasla, Pune, on Apr 1, 1948.
Since then, the regiment has participated in various major operations including those in 1948, 1965 and 1971, performed internal security duties and flood relief operations during Operation Meghrahat in 2014, and earned numerous gallantry awards and commendations.
