Army Day is celebrated on January 15 every year to honour the valour of the soldiers of the army and their selfless service towards safeguarding the nation and its citizens. It commemorates the appointment of the first Indian Commander-in-Chief, General KM Cariappa, OBE (later Field Marshal) who succeeded the last British Commander-in-Chief, General Francis Roy Butcher, on this very day in 1948. Army Day is celebrated at India Gate, all Army offices and Headquarters. The main Army Day parade takes place in Cariappa Parade ground in Delhi Cantonment wherein Gallantry awards and Sena Medals are awarded. This year, 15 soldiers were conferred with gallantry awards. Indian Army also introduced a light and more climate-friendly combat uniform based on a “Digital Disruptive” pattern for its personnel during the Army Day parade, on 15 January 2022.
Considering the third COVID wave and surge in number of infections, this year, Western Command celebrated 74th Army Day amidst stringent protocols by paying homage to the gallant soldiers who laid down their lives for the Nation. The occasion was marked by a Wreath Laying Ceremony at “Veer Smriti”, Chandimandir. Lt Gen Devendra Sharma, Chief of Staff, Headquarters Western Command laid the wreath on behalf of all ranks of the Western Command and paid homage to the valiant heroes. On this day the Western Command reaffirms its commitment and firm resolve to ensure safety, security and sanctity of the Nation and its borders.