Air Chief Marshal Nak Browne reviews passing out parade at his Alma Mater

New Delhi, November 30, 2013: Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne, Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of the Air Staff reviewed the Passing Out Parade of 125th Course of the Khadakwasla located National Defence Academy today. The Air Chief who had trained at the Academy from the year 1968 to 1970, before graduating as a part of the 39th NDA Course, revisited his alma mater as the Reviewing Officer after 43 years. The clear sunny morning of 30th November 2013 saw 296 cadets graduate from the hallowed portals of Khetarpal Parade Ground as a part of 125thNDA Course.
The Air Chief was received by Air Marshal Kulwant Singh Gill Commandant, National Defence Academy at the Parade Ground. Addressing the Passing Out Course, he said, “It is a matter of great honour for me to be here today at my alma mater and review the Passing Out Parade of the 125th course. When you march past the Quarterdeck for the very last time today, you will be firmly on your way to join the noble profession of Arms. The physical toughness and mental agility acquired here will be further honed in your respective Service academies and will forge within you an indomitable spirit to turn all challenges into opportunities. As I look at your young faces, the single minded focus and firm determination that I see re-affirms my faith that the future of our great nation is in safe hands.
While the high quality of training in NDA has given you a solid foundation, the onerous responsibilities that you will shoulder from now on would demand tremendous maturity, courage and stamina. You will have to be prepared to face a multitude of challenges – almost on a daily basis.  While you will have the credo of NDA and service ethos to guide you, allegiance to traditional values of righteousness and honesty will provide you with the strength and confidence to boldly face these challenges. The unique nature of your job will many a times bring you face to face with predicaments, doubts and temptations. However, the core military values that now define your character will empower you to do the right thing every time. So be fearless and have faith in yourself and your capabilities.
Although, trials and tribulations of your daily mission will put your capabilities to the ultimate test, the most enriching part of being a young leader would be the honour of commanding your men. You will be leading the finest set of soldiers, sailors and air warriors in this world.  Therefore, it is your sacred duty to lead them from the front; with care and well-being of the people under your charge as an important concern. The onus is on you to win their trust and respect through your personal conduct, professional competence and unquestionable integrity. You will have to assume full ownership and dedicate yourself to mentoring and guiding your sub-ordinates since they will prove to be the real ‘force multipliers’ in the hour of need.
During the six terms of training here, you have learned the founding lessons on ‘Jointmanship’ within the four walls of your squadrons. It is most essential that you treasure this squadron spirit and retain the essential qualities of team work and synergy. Any future operational response will demand an integrated strategy and employment of service specific strengths in a joint operation. Therefore, the bonds of friendship that you have forged with your course and squadron mates should continue to be nurtured as you grow in service and should translate into greater jointmanship at every stage in your career.
I also take this opportunity to convey my heartfelt gratitude to your parents for offering a prized gift to the nation and supporting your entry into the officer fraternity. On behalf of the Indian Armed Forces, I assure them of our utmost commitment for providing the best training and equipment; as you take the pledge to safeguard the unity & integrity of our nation.
Finally, I welcome the 125th course into the Brotherhood of Arms and the Indian Armed Forces.  As you step out of the portals of this great institution on the notes of ‘Auld Lang Syne’, you must prepare for an exciting journey – replete with challenges but one of immense satisfaction. Conduct yourselves with dignity & honour and ceaselessly strive to achieve the highest professional standards. I wish you continued success and an enriching career ahead.”
Battalion Cadet Captain Manoj Kumar won the President’s Gold medal for standing first in Overall Order of Merit, Academy Cadet Adjudant Yogesh Dhami was awarded the Silver medal for standing second in overall order of merit and Squadron Cadet Captain SS Ithapewas awarded the Bronze medal for standing third in overall order of merit.  The ‘BRAVO SQUADRON’ bagged the Chief of Staff Banner presented to the Champion Squadron.