Ghaziabad, 08 March : In a historic moment for the Indian Air Force, President Draupadi Murmu conferred the 'President's Standard and Colours' award on four units, marking the first time in history that four Air Force units have been simultaneously honored with these prestigious awards. The President's Standard and Colours Award stand as the highest military honor for any armed forces unit, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the Indian Air Force's legacy.
President Draupadi Murmu arrived at Hindon Air Force Station, where the Air Force personnel paraded and saluted her in a ceremony that honored the exceptional achievements of these units.
The ceremony, held at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad, saw 45 Squadron and 221 Squadron receiving the 'President's Standard', while 11 Base Repair Depot and 509 Signal Unit were awarded the 'President's Colours'.
The 45 Squadron, also known as 'Flying Daggers', was established in 1959 and played a crucial role in 'Operation Vijay' for the liberation of Goa from Portuguese rule in 1960. The 221 Squadron, known as 'Valiants', was established on 14 February 1963 at Barrackpur with Vampire aircraft and was deployed in the Eastern Sector during the India-Pakistan War of 1965, where it made significant contributions.
Air Chief Marshal BR Chaudhary, Union Minister of State General VK Singh, Jatin Prasad, Group Captain M Surendran, Group Captain Subhankan, Air Officer Commanding Ashutosh Vaidya, and Commanding Officer Group Captain Vivek Sharma were present at the ceremony representing the four honored units.
