Port Blair, Aug 16: All Components and units of ANC at various stations spread over the A&N archipelago celebrated the 69th Independence Day with traditional enthusiasm and fervour. On this occasion Vice Admiral PK Chatterjee PVSM, AVSM, NM, Commander-in-Chief Andaman and Nicobar Command visited Air Force Station Car Nicobar to participate in the Independence Day celebrations and to spend time with the troops serving the Nation at this remote location. He was received by Group Captain VT Mare, the Station Commander and was accorded a Ceremonial Guard of Honour.
The Commander-in-Chief hoisted the National Flag and laid wreath at the Tsumani Memorial. In his address to all ranks in the Station on this occasion, CINCAN exhorted the Air Warriors to retain the professional edge and maintain the tempo of pursuit of excellence. He appreciated the contribution of Air Force Station Carnic and its lodger units in ensuring maritime security and maintaining vigil in our air space and Exclusive Economic Zone. The role of the Station during casualty evacuation and anti poaching operations also drew appreciation from the Admiral. The Commander-in-Chief concluded his visit with a ‘Barakhana’, a traditional meal with all Air Warriors, non combatants of IAF and civilians.
Apart from flag hoisting and similar Barakhanas at other locations such as Diglipur, Shibpur, Campbell Bay and Kamorta, various components of ANC participated in a big way in the main celebrations at Port Blair. INS Kesari was open for public on 14 Aug, while five ships including two Coast Guard ships were illuminated on 14 and 15 Aug 15.
21 Gun salute at Ross Island was also carried out by ANC. 104 men strong contingent of ANC comprising officers and men of Army, Air force, Navy and Coast Guard components participated in the March Past, coordinated by Commanding Officer of INS Jarawa. The Parade was commanded by Commander James John of Indian Navy, marching to the patriotic tunes played by Army pipe band and Navy brass band.
The aerial assets of ANC were also on full display as fly past was carried out by MI 17 V5 helicopter, which carried the Tricolour under slung and also showered flower petals on the cheering crowd.
