Goa, October 28, 2026: The Indian Air Force (IAF) honoured one of its oldest veterans, Wing Commander Cecil Barretto (Retd), on the occasion of his 104th birthday, reaffirming its commitment to recognising the service, sacrifice and legacy of former Air Warriors.
On October 25, 2026, a team from Airmen Training School (ATS), Belagavi, accompanied by Air Vice Marshal SJ Nanodkar (Retd), President of the Air Force Association (AFA), Goa Branch, visited Wing Commander Barretto at his residence in Goa to celebrate the remarkable milestone.
The veteran officer was felicitated in the presence of his family members, making the occasion a memorable celebration of his long life and association with the Indian Air Force.
The IAF shared the heartwarming gesture with the message, “Once an Air Warrior, Always an Air Warrior,” highlighting the enduring bond between the service and its retired personnel.
The visit reflected the Indian Air Force’s tradition of maintaining close ties with its veterans and acknowledging their contributions to the nation’s military heritage.
At 104, Wing Commander Cecil Barretto represents a living connection to an earlier generation of Air Warriors whose dedication and service helped shape the legacy of the Indian Air Force.
The felicitation also underscored the importance of honouring senior veterans and preserving the spirit of camaraderie that continues long after an officer retires from active service.
Wing Commander Barretto was born on October 25, 1922, and commissioned into the Dental Corps in February 1945. During his distinguished military career, he served in the Second World War and later provided dental services to Indian troops deployed in Jammu and Kashmir following Independence.
He subsequently served at several Air Force stations and was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) on January 26, 1976, in recognition of his distinguished service. Bharat-Rakshak.com+1
His 104th birthday celebration stands as a tribute not only to his longevity but also to a remarkable military career spanning some of the most significant chapters in India’s defence history.
