Port Blair, July 26: Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) celebrated Kargil Vijay Diwas 2019 in a solemn function organised at the Birchgunj Military Station here today. The event was attended by the top brass of the ANC. The events included laying of wreaths at Bayonet Square in Birchgung Military Station by Major General Beji Mathews, Chief of Staff, Andaman and Nicobar Command and by various other dignitaries who paid homage to the war heroes. A moment of silence was also observed to express the gratitude of the nation towards the departed souls. The event concluded with the presenting of arms.
As part of the week-long celebrations, ANC conducted various activities in the Island group like a visit to Indian Naval Ship Saryu, a concert by Indian Army band, walkathons by personnel and families of the Defence Forces, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and a visit for school children to INS Utkrosh. All events witnessed enthusiastic participation, conveying a sense of pride in our Armed Forces.
Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated to commemorate the successful completion of Operation Vijay in 1999 wherein brave martyrs of Indian Defence Forces laid down their lives battling Pakistani Forces on the icy heights of Kargil, Drass, Batalik and Leh regions of Jammu & Kashmir. Braving unprecedented tactical disadvantage and severe climatic conditions, our gallant soldiers simply charged ahead in the face of the enemy’s blazing guns. Heroic deeds, astounding bravery and unflinching determination of our soldiers forced the Pakistani regular forces and militants to withdraw and vacate defence emplacements during the 55-day war.