Mumbai, October 8. Air Force Day is celebrated on October 8 every year to mark the formation of the IAF. Towards this, celebrations were organized by Headquarters, Maritime Air Operations (HQ MAO) at the United Services Club, Mumbai on the evening of 07 October to honour the courage and valour of all the Air warriors, past and present.
The Honorable Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Ramesh Bais was welcomed as the Chief Guest by Air Vice Marshal Rajat Mohan, VM, the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of HQ MAO. Other prominent guests included Vice Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, AVSM, NM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, various senior military and civilian dignitaries and Veteran Officers in Mumbai.
In his speech, the AOC emphasized that IAF as first responder not only guards the skies but also provides quick and efficient response to natural disasters. Modernization of assets with focus on substantial indigenisation (Atmanirbharta) and the induction of the Agniveervayus being a priority.
He thanked all the agencies for taking care of IAF families while the air warriors were away fulfilling their primary duty. On behalf of all air warriors & their families, he also paid respects to a highly decorated veteran- Wg Cdr Jagmohan Nath, MVC and Bar, who passed away earlier this year in Mumbai. In addition, he also acknowledged the service rendered by the IAF veterans, who have shaped the IAF to its present being.
