The Indian Army marked the culmination of a month-long commemoration of Walong Day with a grand ceremony at the historic Walong War Memorial, celebrating the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers who defended the nation during the 1962 Indo-China War. This year’s event was especially notable as it also saw the inauguration of the newly renovated Walong War Memorial, now open to the public.
The ceremony was graced by the Honourable Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd), PVSM, UYSM, YSM, along with Lt Gen A S Pendharkar, AVSM, YSM, General Officer Commanding of the Spear Corps. Both dignitaries paid their respects by laying wreaths at the memorial, joined by war veterans and the Next of Kin (NoK) of the Walong Heroes. The tribute honored those who laid down their lives in defense of India’s sovereignty with profound courage and resilience.
A two-day closing event featured a symphony band performance and a captivating light and sound show, immersing the audience in the heroism of the soldiers and instilling a strong sense of patriotism. Veterans and NoKs participated in the wreath-laying ceremony, followed by a traditional performance by armed forces personnel. Two new patriotic songs, composed for the occasion, were sung and ceremoniously released, adding to the event’s emotional depth.
The month-long celebrations included a series of engaging events aimed at fostering both remembrance and local involvement. These activities ranged from a cycling expedition from Namsai to Namti and white-water rafting in the Lohit River to battlefield treks in Walong Sector, a motorcycle expedition from Mipi to Meshai, and medical camps for residents of Walong, Kibithu, and Anini. These events underscored the Army’s dedication to supporting local communities and promoting border tourism in Arunachal Pradesh.
The commemoration highlighted the Indian Army’s ongoing commitment to national defense and regional development, emphasizing its role in strengthening ties with frontier communities and fostering national pride along India’s border regions. (PR)