New Delhi. 22 June 2018. 7 Garhwal Rifles Infantry Battalion Group was awarded with United Nations Medal for selfless service in the peacekeeping mission in South Sudan. The parade was reviewed by Major General Bayarsaikhan Dashdondog, Deputy Force Commander for United Nations Mission in South Sudan. The ceremony was also graced by a number of military and civil dignitaries including Brigadier General Mohammed Al Masoom, PBGM, PSC, SEAST Commander UNMISS, Ms Deborah Schien , HOFO Jonglei State, Colonel G Praveen, National Senior and a host of senior commanders of various nationalities.
The two hours ceremony saw immaculate drill parade by Indian contingent led by Major Aman Lamba. In his message during the occasion, Major General Bayarsaikhan Dashdondog, Deputy Force Commander complimented the Indian Battalion for carrying out numerous operational tasks with utmost professionalism and dedication to the UN mandate. He further emphasized the legacy of supreme service and sacrifice by the Indian Peacekeepers under the UN flag.
“Indian Battalion has played an active and decisive role in ensuring peace and stability in Jonglei State. I congratulate each member of the contingent for being awarded with the UN peacekeeping medal for his service”, remarked Brigadier General Mohammed Al Masoom, PBGM, PSC, SEAST Commander UNMISS.
The Indian ambassador to South Sudan His Excellency Mr S D Moorthy vide email conveyed his deep appreciation for the Indian Battalion and remarked that despite challenging conditions, the personnel of the Indian contingent here have shown indomitable spirit, in carrying out their tasks with courage, fortitude and exemplary professionalism. The resolute efforts put in by the contingent have been greatly appreciated by the UN hierarchy. The programme culminated with a cultural extravaganza including a “Pipe & Jazz Band Fusion” and a cultural dance performance followed by the Military Band display with martial tunes.
The Indian Battalion had a daunting tasks of being deployed in remote sensitive areas of the Jonglei State with the major tribes in South Sudan, the Dlnkas, Murles and Nuers. Apart from Spearheading the SRSG’s “Nimble and Proactive” strategy in Akobo, the battalion was praised for its pragmatic “PPCE” (Positive and Proactive Community ) together towards a common goal marching for peace and stability the fusion of valour and sacrifice team magnificent seven at medal day remembering the martyrs standing tall in the line of duty drill and discipline at its best .
Engagement” approach with the aim to win the Hearts and Minds of locals and has received accolades from all corners of the mission. The battalions command and control information base setup and the TABBC (Tactical Action Briefing and Brick Centre) have also been acknowledged as operational best practices.
