Uphold values of courage, national pride: Dy Chief of Army Staff to students

Lieut General Rakesh Kapoor, Deputy Chief of the Army Staff, encouraged the students of Dalhousie Public School to uphold the values of integrity, courage and national pride. He was the chief guest at the 55th Founders’ Day of the school. Various guests, alumni, parents, students and the school staff attended the two-day celebrations that ended today with grandeur and patriotic fervour.

Lt Gen Kapoor, an alumnus of St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi, was commissioned into the 63 Cavalry in 1987. Lt Gen Kapoor commended the school for maintaining high standards of discipline and education for over five decades. He also lauded its efforts in nurturing young leaders, who make meaningful contributions to society.

Lt Col Rahul Slathia, Station Staff Officer, Dalhousie, had presided over the inaugural function on yesterday. He gave away prizes to students who had excelled in academics, sports and co-curricular activities. The day featured vibrant cultural performances, including traditional dances, skits and musical presentations, that entralled the audience.

The event reflected a renewed sense of national pride and admiration for the armed forces — sentiments deeply echoed by the students, who expressed deep respect for the men and women in uniform.

Dalhousie Public School has hosted the Chiefs of the Army, Navy and the Indian Air Force as chief guests at Founders’ Day on four previous occasions. A uniformed officer leads the function every year.

The school also houses the unique Beeji’s Park, dedicated to the Army, Navy, and the Indian Air Force. The park features iconic installations, including a MIG-21 fighter jet, T-55 battle tank, two 106-mm recoilless rifles mounted on Willys Jeeps, light and heavy torpedoes, a model of a naval frigate gifted by the Eastern Naval Command and a replica of an Apache helicopter — all honouring the courage and sacrifice of the Indian armed forces.

The celebrations concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr (Capt) GS Dhillon, Chairman and Director of the school. Dr Dhillon expressed heartfelt gratitude to the chief guest, dignitaries, parents and the school staff..