Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as MS Dhoni, is not just a cricketing legend but also holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army unit of the Parachute Regiment. He received this honor in 2011, in recognition of his extraordinary service to the nation through cricket. It was a fitting tribute to a man who led the Indian cricket team to multiple victories, including the ICC World Cup.
Parachute Training and Deployment
MS Dhoni, despite being an honorary rank holder, took his role seriously. He completed parachute training jumps from Indian Army aircraft at the Agra training camp, making him a qualified paratrooper. This dedication was evident when he decided to serve a 15-day stint with the Para Regiment in Kashmir.
MS Dhoni’s Army Duties in Kashmir
In 2019, MS Dhoni was deployed in Kashmir as part of the Victor Force, a unit known for its operational excellence in the region. His duties included patrolling, guard, and post duty with his 106 TA Battalion (Para). This two-week stint from July 31 to August 15 showcased Dhoni’s commitment to serving the nation beyond the cricket field.
Pictures of MS Dhoni on Army Duty
During his deployment, MS Dhoni’s interactions and activities were documented in a series of images that quickly went viral. Let’s take a look at some of the most memorable moments from his time in Kashmir:
Getting Ready and Polishing Shoes
The day often started with Dhoni preparing his uniform, including polishing his shoes. This simple act symbolized his respect for the discipline and structure of military life.