Stuart tank after the historic break through at Zoji La - Nov 1948
New Delhi: 10 Feb 2009
7th Light Cavalry, the second oldest and most decorated Armoured Regiment of the Indian Army is celebrating its 225th Raising Day celebrations from 12 to 14 February 2009 somewhere in the Western Sector. A galaxy of eminent dignitaries including senior serving and retired officers, old British officers, retired Junior Commissioned Officers, other ranks and widows of martyred soldiers would be gracing this momentous occasion.
The Regiment, raised in 1784 from the Nawab of Arcot's Cavalry has earned twenty one battle and theatre honours, of which nine have been bestowed on the Regiment since Independence. The Regiment has fought with distinction in all major wars since Independence and emerged as the most decorated Regiment of the Indian Army after the 1971 operations. The Regiment has been awarded 294 confirmed awards till date.
The Regiment is best known for its exploits during the battle of Zoji La when on 01 November 1948, for the first time in the annals of armoured warfare in the world, tanks were decisively employed at the height of 11,578 ft, a feat unparalleled to this day. This led to the recapture of the pass from the Pakistanis. The Regiment was named the "Saviours of Srinagar" by Sheikh Abdullah for this audacious and unconventional action.
The 225th Raising Day celebrations will start with the flagging-off of an adventure expedition on 07 February. This expedition would be visiting the location where the Regiment fought in the 1965 Indo - Pak war using three different modes of transport namely, motorcycles, bicycles and boats. Various other events on the itinerary include a 'Mandir-Gurudwara' function, a traditional 'Barakhana', a nostalgic Cycle Polo Match between the serving and retired officers, a solemn Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Regimental War Memorial, a customary 'Sainik Sammelan', a Family Welfare Meet to honour the widows and an Anniversary Dinner.
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