JOIN USSymbolising unity in diversity
As the Commanding Officer of Indian Naval Ship ‘Dunagiri’, I inspected the Guard of Honour on January 26, 1989 during the Republic Day function aboard the ship and this photograph was taken then.
Inspecting men on parade is a very proud moment for any Commanding Officer because the men on parade reflect the mood and morale of the ship. A Commanding Officer gets a tremendous amount of satisfaction when he sees smart sailors and this is a sign that all is well and the sailors are fighting fit and ready for the battle.
During any inspection, the most important aspect is the military bearing of the sailor. He should stand erect with his chest out, look straight and be self-confident.
The uniform has to be perfect and the boots have to be properly polished. A sharp haircut and a clean shave are a must. I used to look out for any slack sailors, who did not fit the bill and talk to them in the inspection. Later on, I would follow up and inquire about their morale.
There were many a proud moment on board ‘INS Dunagiri’. I was extremely proud of the professional competence shown by my sailors and officers on board. I derived great satisfaction in commanding a ship which was worthy of a battle. The ship performed extremely well during our long deployment in Sri Lanka as a part of IPKF operations.
My 22 months on board were probably the best part of my life. My childhood and years in college gave me a lot of courage and confidence to handle the challenges during my stint in the Indian Navy. I studied in Mahila Seva Samaj and thereafter, in National High School and National College. I completed my graduation from the National Defence Academy and was commissioned in the Indian Navy on January 1, 1970.
I vividly recall the Republic Day celebrations in the Indian Navy. The day was celebrated with much fanfare involving the ships, submarines and shore establishments. We participated in the celebrations with utmost passion and pride.
The flag hoisting in the morning, parades and long marches on the roads of Cochin were the highlights. I still remember a gruelling 15 km march in Kochi in 1975 as the Parade Commander.
A lot has changed since then. Today, the Republic Day Parade symbolises the unity, diversity and strength of India. The military might of India is exhibited on this day to reaffirm our important presence in the region of Asia.
With world leaders coming in to witness the glorious celebrations, all the more significance is added to the parade. The fact that Barack Obama, the President of United States of America, is the chief guest this time says it all.
Captain MV Prabhakar Indian Navy (Retd)As told to Nina C George