A Combined Graduation Parade was held at Air Force Academy, Dundigal today, the 21st December 2019, which marked the successful culmination of training for 127 Flight Cadets of Flying and Ground duty branches of the IAF.

Twenty one women officers joined the growing number of women in the IAF. On this day the President’s Commission is formally conferred on these young and tough air warriors after a long period of rigorous training. The graduation ceremony was undertaken through a smart parade and administration of Oath. The parade commenced with the flag bearing skydivers of the famous Akash Ganga team, spreading the tricolor over the blue skies of Dundigal.

The Air Warrior Drill Team once again put up a sharp synchronized performance, delighting the spectators with their handling of weapons. The event was witnessed by the proud family members and friends of passing-out cadets. Several senior serving and retired officers from the three services were present.

The Reviewing Officer was received by Air Marshal AS Butola, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Training Command and Air Marshal J Chalapati, Commandant Air Force Academy. The Reviewing Officer was presented with a ceremonial Salute by the Parade followed by an impressive March Past. The highlight of the Parade was the ‘Pipping Ceremony’, where the Flight Cadets were awarded their ‘Stripes’ (Air Force rank) by the Chief Guest. They were then administered the ‘Oath’ by the Commandant of the Academy in the presence of the Reviewing Officer and other dignitaries.

After the ‘Pipping Ceremony’ the Reviewing Officer gave away awards to the Flying Officers who excelled in various disciplines of training.Flying Officer ArunabhaChakrabortyfrom the Flying Branch was awarded the ‘Sword of Honour’ and President’s Plaque for standing First in Overall Merit in the Pilots’ Course. Flying Officer Aayush Pandey and Flying Officer Purnendu Kumar Singh were awarded President’s Plaque for being first in Overall Merit in Navigation and Ground Duty branches respectively.