New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday termed former Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat as an extraordinary military leader, saying his death created a void that could not be filled.
The President was speaking on the occasion of review of the Passing Out Parade of the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun.
The President said the nation is yet to come out of the shock of the untimely demise of Gen Rawat.
“Uttarakhand was his home and he was trained at the Indian Military Academy. At the IMA, he was awarded the Sword of Honour for his exceptional skills.”
The President said Gen Rawat added to the glory of the IMA, which is an institution with an inspiring tradition. “Before him, Field Marshal KM Cariappa, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and many other extraordinary warriors and strategists began their journey here as young cadets and potential leaders. Some of them laid down their lives for the safety and honour of our nation.”
He expressed confidence that the gentlemen cadets, who would shortly embark on their journey of a life characterised by valour and wisdom, would carry forward the rich legacy of the academy.
He said that General Rawat, by the dint of his hard work, emerged as the role model of soldierly conduct for the future generation. The President expressed confidence that the national flag would always fly high because brave men like gentlemen cadets present at the IMA would preserve and protect its honour.
