Hyderabad (Telangana): The combined graduation parade (CGP) was held at the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad on Saturday. IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria was also present at the event. Due to COVID situation, parents and relatives of the passing out cadets were not able to attend the ceremony
The event started at 8 am with general salute followed by various activities like inspection of the parade in a review vehicle and oath-taking ceremony.
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The event assumes significance as it was held amid the ongoing tension with China over the killing of 20 Indian soldiers in Ladakh on Monday.
During the CGP, IAF Chief conferred the 'President's Commission' to 123 graduating trainees, including 19 women cadets, of various branches.
The CGP symbolises the culmination of rigorous training and transformation of a cadet into a young officer to shoulder the nation's responsibility, a Defence release said.
The ceremony also included the presentation of 'Wings' and 'Brevets' to the flight cadets who completed flying and navigation training respectively.
Officers of Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard who underwent flying training at Air Force Academy were also presented 'Wings'.
The award of 'Wings' or 'Brevets' represents a significant milestone in every military aviator's career and is the culmination of a demanding and rewarding period of training.
The parade was commanded by the flight cadet standing first in overall order of merit. He was awarded the 'Sword of Honour' along with the 'President's Plaque' by the reviewing officer for his achievements.
The Air Chief Marshal was also present when President's Plaque to the flight cadet, who stands first in the overall merit in the ground duty branches, was given.
The parade was followed by a flypast by formations of Pilatus, Kiran Hawk, Chetak helicopters and an aerobatic display by Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT).
Officials said because of the prevailing Covid-19 situation, the cadets will get commissioned while taking all necessary safety precautions. The parents and relatives of the passing out cadets did not attend the ceremony.
The parade was broadcasted live on Doordarshan and the social media handles of the Indian Air Force.
After commissioning, the cadets directly moved to their respective units.
IANS report
