Shillong, Aug 18: Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia, AVSM, VM, AOC-in-C, Eastern Air Command, paid a solemn visit to the Assam Rifles War Memorial at Headquarters Directorate General Assam Rifles (DGAR), Shillong, on August 17, paying tribute to soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.

During the ceremony, Air Marshal Walia laid a wreath at the memorial and honoured the courage, valour and selfless devotion to duty of the fallen personnel. The tribute highlighted the enduring legacy of those who sacrificed their lives while serving in challenging operational environments.
The ceremony served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces and their continued contribution to maintaining peace and security. The courage and commitment of the fallen, officials said, continue to inspire serving personnel and generations to come.
During his visit, the AOC-in-C, Eastern Air Command, also interacted with officers and personnel of the Assam Rifles. He appreciated their professionalism, discipline and dedication to duty, particularly their sustained service in the difficult terrain and demanding operational environment of the Northeast.
Air Marshal Walia commended the troops for maintaining high standards of operational preparedness, stressing the importance of vigilance, teamwork and commitment while operating in challenging conditions.
The interaction also provided an opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of personnel performing their duties across the region. The AOC-in-C recognised their efforts and encouraged them to maintain the high standards expected of the force.
As part of the visit, Dy Comdt Angam Zimik, WO Aswini Patgiri and Rifleman Virendra Singh were awarded the AOC-in-C, Eastern Air Command Commendation Card for their commendable performance, dedication and service.
The recognition highlighted individual contributions while reinforcing the importance of professionalism and excellence in military service.
The visit concluded with a reaffirmation of the values of courage, sacrifice and duty that underpin the armed forces. The homage at the Assam Rifles War Memorial and recognition of serving personnel together underscored the continuing bond between remembrance of the fallen and appreciation of those carrying forward their legacy in service to the nation.