Field Marshal S.H.F.J. Manekshaw, one of the heroes of modern India, handed over his command?
Field Marshal S.H.F.J. Manekshaw, one of the heroes of modern India, handed over his command as Chief of the Army Staff on Monday (15 January) to General G.G. Bewoor.
"Sam" Manekshaw was recently awarded his Field Marshal's baton -- becoming the first to hold it in India -- as a climax to a 40-year military career. He is renowned for his leadership during the war with pakistan in December, 1972.
It was during that war, too, that General Bewoor consolidated his reputation. He led the Southern Command Army which captured more than 4,000 square miles.
In his outgoing speech, the Field Marshal said he had always been worried about the thought of having to leave the army. But by promoting him to Field Marshal, the Indian President V.V. Giri, had ensured he need never retire -- Field Marshals hold office until their death.
999999,SYNOPSIS: India's Defence Ministry, where Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw arrived with his wife on Monday to say goodbye.
It was a historic occasion. The first Indian to be appointed a Field Marshal was handing over to his successor as Chief of Army Staff. The Field Marshal handed over his seat to the new chef, General Bewoor. Aides pinned the insignia of his new office on the General.
Field Marshal Manekshaw said one of his worries after 40 years in the army was eventually having to leave. But now he'd been made a Field Marshal he was in office for life. The Field Marshal was presented with an album recording his military career.
#manekshaww #india #army #defence