Indian Air Force Units Receive Prestigious President’s Standard and Colours in Historic Ceremony

Ghaziabad: In a historic ceremony on March 8, 2024, the President of India and the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, Droupadi Murmu, awarded the prestigious President’s Standard to 45 Squadron and 221 Squadron, and the President’s Colours to 11 Base Repair Depot (BRD) and 509 Signal Unit (SU) of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The President’s Standard and Colours are the highest honors that can be bestowed upon any military unit. This ceremony marks the first time in the history of the IAF that four units have been awarded the President’s Standard and Colours together in a single event.

Upon arrival, the President received an aerial salute by three Mi-171V helicopters in ‘Dhwaj’ formation, trooping the National flag. General VK Singh (Retd), Minister of State for Civil Aviation, also graced the occasion. Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Air Staff, and senior officers of the Indian Air Force were present at this momentous event.

The ceremonial parade, commanded by Group Captain KS Sanu Nair of 11 BRD, showcased precision and discipline. First Day covers for 45 Squadron, 221 Squadron, 11 Base Repair Depot, and 509 Signal Unit were released by the Hon’ble President during the ceremony.

The President’s Standard was received by Group Captain M Surendran, Commanding Officer of 45 Squadron, and Group Captain Shubhankan, Commanding Officer of 221 Squadron. The President’s Colours were received by Air Commodore Ashutosh Vaidya, Air Officer Commanding of 11 BRD, and Group Captain Vivek Sharma, Commanding Officer of 509 SU during the impressive parade at Air Force Station Hindan, Ghaziabad.

Addressing the parade, the Hon’ble President congratulated the units for their exceptional services to the nation and commended their courage and commitment. She highlighted the invaluable contributions of the Indian Air Force during war and peacetime operations, both within India and overseas. The President also acknowledged the significant role of the IAF in the country’s space programs and the upcoming Gaganyaan mission.

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Hon’ble President extended congratulations to the women personnel of the IAF. She expressed satisfaction that women officers are provided equal opportunities in every branch of the IAF, enabling them to advance in their careers. The ceremony concluded with a sense of pride and accomplishment for the Indian Air Force and the nation it serves.