In a significant event showcasing the deep-rooted traditions and legacies of military families, the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun held its Passing Out Parade (POP) on Saturday, commissioning 525 newly minted officers. The ceremony was presided over by Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, as officers from various courses, including the 157th Regular Course, 46th Technical Entry Scheme (TES), 140th Technical Graduate Course, 55th SCO Course, and TA OTEE-2023, completed their training alongside 34 officers from 14 Friendly Foreign Countries.
Among the new lieutenants, three stood out for their remarkable family histories within the armed forces, embodying a legacy of service that spans over a century.
Lieutenant Sartaj Singh was commissioned into the 20 Jat Regiment, the same unit his father, Brigadier Upinder Pal Singh, serves. Sartaj represents a rare fifth-generation military lineage that dates back to 1897. His family’s military narrative began with Sepoy Kirpal Singh, who fought in the Afghan Campaign. Over the decades, Sartaj’s lineage has fortified its legacy with contributions from:
- Subedar Ajmer Singh, a World War II veteran recognized for his heroism during the Battle of Bir Hakeim.
- Brigadier Harwant Singh, who played pivotal roles in the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars.
- Colonel Harvinder Pal Singh, who served on the treacherous fronts of Siachen during the 1999 Kargil War.
On his maternal side, the tradition persists, with family members showcasing their dedication to military service in both World Wars and the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict. The IMA encapsulates Lt Sartaj’s commissioning as “the moment when legacy becomes responsibility,” highlighting the weight of his family’s history he now carries as a commissioned officer.
Lieutenant Harmanmeet Singh Reen, who joined the Maratha Light Infantry, follows a four-generation strong military heritage. His lineage boasts an impressive record: his great-grandfather served in the Sikh Regiment, his grandfather in the Signals, and two grand-uncles who bravely fought in the 1965 Indo-Pak War, notably Captain Ujagar Singh, who earned the Sena Medal for Gallantry. Currently, his father, Colonel Harmeet Singh, continues the family tradition within the Indian Army.
An outstanding and driven cadet, Harmanmeet earned the distinction of Silver Medallist at the MCTE while also winning prestigious accolades such as the Bayonet Pin and Six Star Torch in recognition of his academic and athletic accomplishments. His journey into the military was sparked by a childhood visit to the IMA, coupled with an inspirational meeting with former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who foresaw his future as a soldier.
Lieutenant Yuvraj Singh Nughaal represents the fourth consecutive generation in his family to serve in the armed forces. His family history is rich, with his great-grandfather serving in 7 Jat (pre-Independence), his grandfather in 16 Grenadiers, and his father being commissioned into 7 Mechanised Infantry. The IMA heralded Yuvraj’s commissioning as a testament to “not an end, but the renewal of a sacred tradition of honour, sacrifice and duty,” emphasizing the enduring commitment seen across generations.
The IMA’s role as a forge for leadership, discipline, and values was underscored during this event. The commissioning of officers hailing from multi-generational military families serves as a poignant reminder that while military uniforms may be passed down, true honour is earned through unwavering commitment, courage, and dedicated service to the nation.
