MLA Samba and Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh BJP Vice President Mr Surjeet Singh Slathia today paid glowing tributes to martyrs, who stood firm like a rock in defense of the nation in most challenging situations and offered their supreme sacrifices.
“We salute the valour of our brave jawans and officers. who laid down their lives while defending the integrity and sovereignty of the nation”, Mr Slathia said while leading people in paying tribute to Martyr 2nd Lt Arun Khetrapal PVC, at a homage giving function at Veer Bhumi Park Samba.
The commemorative Memorial Service was organised by Samba Social Club with the assistance of 66 Armoured Regiment. "By offering supreme sacrifice, 2nd Lt Arun Khetrapal PVC has made his village and the entire Jammu and Kashmir proud", Mr Slathia said, adding that martyrdom of brave soldiers and officers remain source of inspiration for the compatriots, especially the youth.
The nation will always remain indebted to the valiant martyrs who give their today for secure tomorrow of the country, he maintained. The former minister, who was chief guest at the homage giving function, said Samba in particular has been the land of Warriors who have contributed immensely in defence of the country, especially in the past over seven decades.
He lauded the heroic role of the armed forces in coming to the rescue of the people during the times of distress like natural calamities and defending the borders at the pearl of their lives. Mr Slathia exuded confidence that the sacrifices of valiant heroes will serve as an inspiration for the youngsters to be part of the world’s bravest Indian Army that has a track record of record of heroism.
The stories of valour scripted by brave hearts has made every Indian proud, he said, adding their saga of valour remain inked with golden letters in the country’s military history. Mr Slathia said that the best tribute to the martyrs would be to join the efforts of rebuilding India and making it the Vishwa guru, the mission initiated by Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi.
The local functionaries and the prominent citizens, including the organisers paid floral tribute to the warrior. Special Guest Mukesh Khetrapal, Guest Of Honour District Development commissioner Samba Sh Rajesh Sharma, Senior Superintendent of Police Samba Sh Varinder Singh Manhas and other officers also paid homage to the martyr 2nd Lt Arun Khetrapal PVC.