Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, PVSM, AVSM, VM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command, visited 13 GRENADIERS (GJ), proudly known as the Ganga Jaisalmer Risala, in a meaningful interaction that highlighted the deep bond between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.
The visit held special significance as Air Marshal Tejinder Singh had been deployed with the unit at the Siachen Glacier in 1989 as part of Operation Meghdoot. His association with the unit from one of the most demanding operational environments added a strong emotional and professional connect to the occasion.
During the visit, the Air Marshal interacted with all ranks of the battalion and also met veterans who had served alongside him during his deployment at Siachen. The interaction brought back memories of shared hardships, operational commitment and the spirit of brotherhood forged in the extreme conditions of the world’s highest battlefield.
The visit also served as a reminder of the close inter-service cooperation that has always existed between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. In challenging operational areas such as Siachen, the coordination between ground troops and air warriors remains vital for logistics, mobility, casualty evacuation and overall mission success.
While addressing the officers and troops, Air Marshal Tejinder Singh motivated them to continue upholding the glorious traditions of the regiment. He expressed confidence that the 565-year-old Paltan would continue to live up to its rich legacy of valour, sacrifice and dedicated service to the nation.
The Ganga Jaisalmer Risala has a proud history and a distinguished record of service. Over the years, the unit has earned respect for its professionalism, courage and commitment in various operational roles. The visit by Air Marshal Tejinder Singh further strengthened the emotional connection between serving personnel, veterans and the larger military fraternity.
The occasion reflected the enduring values of camaraderie, professionalism and national service that define the Indian Armed Forces. It also reaffirmed the spirit of jointness between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, built through decades of shared operational experience and mutual trust.
Air Marshal Tejinder Singh’s visit to 13 GRENADIERS was not only a tribute to past associations but also an inspiring moment for the present generation of soldiers, reminding them of the honour, legacy and responsibility they carry forward as part of one of the Army’s historic battalions.
