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Dear Members of the Corps of Signals fratenity,
With grief we are posting details of our colleagues who leave for their heavenly abode. We request members to forward their "shradhanjali". Kindly share with us the photographs, fond memories and association.
We await tributes from associates/ course mates for publication.
Blog Team

RMS Tributes
  • Amar Jawan: Roll of Honour of the Indian Armed Forces
  • The Kargil Memorial
  • Tuesday, December 30, 2008

    Col OP Kalra (Tommy, Omi)

    It has taken quite a while to adjust to not having Col OP Kalra (aka Tommy & Omi) around. I am late in this Shradhanjli to my NDA coursemate. Forgive me Tommy. And Mamta, Novi & Tannu.

    If there ever was an officer, a gentleman, of sterling qualities- great head, heart, spirit & cheerfulness, it was Tommy. He would bear no malice, ever, to any one. We have a number of ‘genius’ level officers, but ease of effort and ‘bindaas’ intelligence wise Tommy towered head & shoulders above. He never wanted to be in the rat race and was happy with the way life was panning out. Tension was taboo to him. A great sportsman, who would never be found alone; we all sought his company. He was spontaneous with help whenever anyone approached him.

    He was rechristened ‘Tommy’ during our Degree Course because of his smiling, simple boyish ways & looks and his gurgling laughter (refer photo). His school friends and Squadron mates preferred ‘Omi’. Meera recalls his amiabilty and sauntering across to have a genial conversation with each lady particularly coursemates, at any gathering.

    His professional versatility- CO 11 Inf Div Sig Regt; OC Computer Wing, MCTE; Battalion Commander IMA & He was the Founding Father of the Army Institute of Technology (AIT) Pune. His aptitude for ‘EDP’ developed early and he went on to make a very successful second career in the field of Computers after opting for premature retirement.

    Tommy was ‘genuine’ 24 carat human, yet unassuming, humble and devoid of airs and that made him the most valuable asset of our course. The news of his illness hit us all hard but his passing away was a shock to all those who knew him.

    We pray for his soul to rest in peace and for the Almighty’s Blessings to family and friends to bear this most untimely loss. We will miss you Tommy, immensely…

    In fond memory of a really good human being.... Tommy.

    Thanks & Regards
    Maj Gen BS Keron VSM

    Monday, December 29, 2008

    Brig Subhash K Datta 'The Gentle Giant"

    At the very outset, Meera joins me in our heartfelt condolences to Mrs Datta and the family, the 1 Armd Div Sig Regt family, to the Corps and to the Corps Veterans Fraternity for this sad and untimely loss.

    We first met (then) Col Subhash Datta at Patiala in Feb 1986, when he came as my relief as CO of 1 Armd Div Sig Regt (above). Mrs Datta had just been blessed with a daughter.

    The Regt was getting its first full Col CO (his 3rd command) and I was handing over command of an illustrious Sig Regt, as a Lt Col, after a tenure of almost 3 years.

    Despite his formidable appearance and walrus moustache, he came across as a very Gentle Giant. It was great to see the uniformed Gentle Giant cradling his infant daughter in his brawny arms, ever so gently. That image has endured in my mind over the decades gone by! (below)

    The handing taking over was very smooth and Col Datta was effusive in his praise for the predecessor COs and the team, very courteous and professional, with a hearty laugh at regular intervals, full of anecdotes and endeared himself immensely to one and all.

    Thereafter, he led the Regt through BrassTacks very effectively in his own characteristic style and one always heard of his contributions to the Regt in the most positive manner.

    Later, everytime we met, it was very pleasant to exchange 'khabar-shabar' on lots of issues. He was a gracious host (emphatic as ever on the liquid diet) when we visited them at their New Delhi home and was always most cordial, helpful and affectionate even when I met him at his Cabinet Sectt office.

    The best part about Brig Subhash Datta was that invariably, everyone who spoke of him, always had some good things to say about him, large hearted and ebullient that he was. Truthfully, I have never heard anyone say anything to the contrary and that is how , his memory lives with us. The Gentle Giant with a Big Heart.

    My colleagues, serving and retired, of 1 Armd Div Sig Regt, will permit me to record, on their behalf, our pride and happiness that Subhash Datta was the 18th Commanding Officer of the Airawat Signal Regiment and will always remain a part of our history.

    May his soul rest in peace and May the Almighty give us all the strength to bear his loss and to emulate his hearty laugh and bear hug warmth.

    Thanks & Regards
    Maj Gen BS Keron VSM

    Saturday, December 27, 2008

    Brig H Chukerbuti

    I have very fond memories of Brig Chukerbuti. When I was posted in Wellington in 1991-92, he was our local Colonel Comdt. I have enjoyed their hospitality many times at Bonnie Nestie. His son was with me in MS Branch in 1995-96. If I remember correctly Isabel Ellen was a WAC (Womens Auxiliary Corps) officer during WW II and she and Brig Chukerbuti both attended the same staff course! Perhaps some old timer will authenticate the story.

    I recall one incident that occurred when I was at Wellington. A group of British tourists were visiting Ooty. It included Gen Horsfield of Royal Signals and his wife. (General Horsfield had served with Indian Signals before 1947 and was later the president of the Indian Signals Association in UK). I think when they were in Madras they rang up Brig Chukerbuti and told them of their plans. They were to reach Coimbatore next day by train and then drive up to Ooty.

    Brig Chukerbuti decided that Gen Horsfield must be received in true Signals style. The Comdt was kind enough to give staff car. When the group got off the train they found a gleaming car, complete with a flag and two stars, standing right on the platform. Brig Chukerbuti received the Horsfields and conducted them to the car, telling the rest of the group that he would drop them at Ooty by nightfall. The British group was surprised when they found that two members of their group had been ‘kidnapped’, but were also impressed with the esprit de corps of Indian Signals.

    Needless to say, Brig Chukerbuti asked us to join them during lunch at Bonnie Nestie. After spending a few hours at Wellington, the Horsfields were driven to Ooty in the same staff car by Brig Chukerbuti to join up with his group.

    Brig Chukerbuti was our oldest signal officers when he passed away. The ones who were senior to him were AC Iyappa, JR DeSouza, BD Kapoor, BS Bhagat, RN Batra, SN Bhatia and Apar Singh. With his passing away, another of the old guard has left us.

    Maj Gen VK Singh

    Thursday, December 18, 2008

    Lt Col N Banerjee

    Dear Signallers,
    Reference email received from Dte Gen of Signals appended below.
    I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC - 29629N Lt Col N Banerjee, a Signals Veteran, on 7 Dec 08.

    We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

    Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli" for him, may kindly send it for being posted to our weblog -
    http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
    The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to - Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at - reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com

    In sorrow -
    Chander Kamboj.

    Dear Sir
    We regret to inform you the sad demise of IC-29629N Lt Col N Banerjee (Retd) on 07 Dec 2008. The particulars of offr are as under:-
    1. IC No, Rank & Name: IC-29629N Lt Col N Banerjee (Retd)
    2. Name of NOK: Shri NK Banerjee (Father)

    Regards
    Lt Col AS Mankoo
    Dir Sigs Adm

    Friday, December 12, 2008

    Brig S K Datta

    Its an extremely distressing and sad news for me personally because Brig Datta is a Role Model for me. My adoration and admiration for him are too deep rooted to express in words. I was fortunate to be his Adjutant in 1 Fd Sub Gp at Delhi during 1983 to 85. Initially he used to get annoyed with me but as time went by he used to appreciate me a lot for my work. His sense of humour was so good we used to laugh a lot even under tense situations. I became a better person as well as a better officer under his able guidance. He was fiercely protective of his subordinates and never allowed any superior to interfere with his Command. He never passed on the buck.

    Once he asked me to have a HOWLERS BOOK kept in my office. I took my own time and after being reminded once or twice I compiled some howlers and put up the book to him with a note "Draft Howlers are put up for approval please". Right came the reply with his remarks "Howlers are never drafted. This will be the first howler. Keep it up". I don't know if that book is still in existence at 1 Fd Sub Gp. When a JCO applied for sanction of expenditures for dentures he wrote" As a SJCO his bark should be bigger than his bite. What does he need dentures for?" His sense of humour was commendable and I am fortunate to have served under him.

    His respect for customs and traditions needs a special mention. When he forwarded his name for attending the dining out of a retired signal offr at Signals Enclave, I casually inquired if he knew the offr previously. Pat came the reply, "No I don't know him. But we must respect his services to our Corps all these years. By attending his dining out I am doing that". I was taken aback by his reply. He is such a noble soul and man of great qualities with inspiring leadership traits, I wish to salute him. I have cried for the first time after my parents death.

    I can go on and on because he is a friend philosopher and guide to me. But nobody can deny that he was a cut above the rest in my view. The Signal Corps had lost a great stalwart in his demise. I and my family pray to God Almighty to bless his soul to rest in peace and give the courage to his family to bear this irreparable loss with fortitude

    Col C V Mohan (Retd)

    Brig SK Datta

    1. The untimely and sudden demise of Brig SK Datta, (who was my boss as Col 'Q' at H Q 28 Inf Div at Nimu) will always be remembered as my friend, tutor and a perfect gentleman. He taught me the intricacies of staff work, how to be happy, show confidence and keep balance in crisis situation. Brig Datta was full of life and had a very imposing personality. His presence in all social gatherings always inspired others to follow him. He was very kind, had polished manners, spoke very well and enjoyed lighter side of life. He met me always with a satisfying face. He inspired me to work hard and yet live like a king.

    2. His untimely demise is indeed so tragic and sad. We pray to almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and express our deep sorrow and condolences to the bereaved family.

    3. His loss will be much felt by me and the Corps fraternity. Our deepest condolences to the Bereaved Family.

    May God rest the departed soul in peace.

    In sorrow,
    Col Vinod Batra (Retd)

    Wednesday, December 10, 2008

    Brig SK Datta

    The sudden and untimely demise of Brig SK Datta is indeed so tragic and sad. We pray to almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and express our deep sorrow and condolences to the bereaved family.

    Brig Datta was full of life and had a very imposing personality. His presence in a professional or social gathering was always noticeable.

    He was professionally very sound and proved his abilities within and outside the Corps in important assignments. His loss will be much felt by the Corps fraternity..

    Harbhajan Singh
    Lt Gen
    Former Signal Officer-in-Chief and Senior Colonel Commandant

    IC 13593W Brig SK Datta

    To,
    All Signals Officers,

    I am sad to read the contents of the email received from Gen VK Singh appended below.

    This is the first intimation I have received about the demise of Brig Datta. No information has been received from Dte Gen of Signals also.

    We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

    In sorrow
    Brig Chander Kamboj VSM (Retd)

    Dear Brig Kamboj,

    On 8 Dec at about 1630 I received an SMS message (Sigs - Teevra Chaukas) that the cremation of IC 13593W Brig SK Datta will be held at Brar Square cremation ground at 1600 hrs on 08 Dec 2008.

    Surprisingly, there has been no intimation about his demise on Report My Signals. Do you have any intimation in this regard? I could not go for the cremation but would like to attend the Chautha. Subhas Datta was my DCC in NDA when I joined in 1961. He was also with me in RAW. I held him in high esteem and was saddened by the news.

    Regards
    Maj Gen VK Singh (Retd)

    Sunday, November 30, 2008

    Brig H Chukerbuti: Last rites

    My father Brig H Chukerbuti (Retd) was cremated on 6th November 2008 at Wellington, Nilgiris, India. He is survived by his wife, two sons and daughter. His family, relations, many Signallers, serving Army personnel, veterans, friends and people he knew attended his funeral. Our family is deeply grateful for all who took time to attend his last rites and to the many kind people who have rung, have written and communicated their condolences. My mother in particular was comforted by many Signallers who remembered her at this time. As per his personal wishes his ashes were consigned to the sea off Mumbai on 30th November 2008 by his children.
    His son

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008

    Capt Vineet Singh

    Dear Signallers,
    I am sad to inform you that one of our serving Signals officer, SS-41485H Capt Vineet Singh, has expired on 15 Nov 2008, at his home, village Seohara Bijjnor (UP).
    The cause of his death has not been intimated to us by the Dte Gen of Signals. Next of Kin Shree IP Singh (Father). More details please see the email of Dte Gen of Signals appended below.

    We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

    Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli" for him, may kindly send it for being posted to our weblog- http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
    The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to- Lt Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at- reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com

    In sorrow-
    Chander Kamboj

    Dear Sir
    We regret to inform you the sad demise of SS-41485H Capt Vineet Singh on 15 Nov 2008 at 2000h. The particulars of offr are as under:-

    1. IC No, Rank & Name: SS-41485H Capt Vineet Singh
    2. Name of NOK: Mr IP Singh (Father)
    3. Date of Commission: 17 Sep 2005
    4. Date of Demise: 15 Nov 2008 at 2000hrs

    Regards
    Lt Col AS Mankoo
    Dir Sigs Adm

    Capt Vineet Singh

    Dear Signallers,
    I am sad to inform you that one of our serving Signals officer, SS-41485H Capt Vineet Singh, has expired on 15 Nov 2008, at his home, village Seohara Bijjnor (UP).
    The cause of his death has not been intimated to us by the Dte Gen of Signals. Next of Kin Shree IP Singh (Father). More details please see the email of Dte Gen of Signals appended below.

    We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

    Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli" for him, may kindly send it for being posted to our weblog- http://reportmysignal-shradhanjli.blogspot.com/
    The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to- Lt Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at- reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com

    In sorrow-
    Chander Kamboj

    Dear Sir
    We regret to inform you the sad demise of SS-41485H Capt Vineet Singh on 15 Nov 2008 at 2000h. The particulars of offr are as under:-

    1. IC No, Rank & Name: SS-41485H Capt Vineet Singh
    2. Name of NOK: Mr IP Singh (Father)
    3. Date of Commission: 17 Sep 2005
    4. Date of Demise: 15 Nov 2008 at 2000hrs

    Regards
    Lt Col AS Mankoo
    Dir Sigs Adm

    Monday, November 10, 2008

    Brig H Chukerbuti

    The passing away of Brig H Chukerbuti on 4 Nov at Wellington is a very sad news indeed. He was one of our very senior and popular Veteran.

    I first net Brig and Mrs. Chukerbuti as a YO in Jan 1953, when he was Commandant, then School of Signals. He was very kind, had polished manners, spoke very well, enjoyed lighter side of life and was a good sportsman. Chakurbutis were very gracious hosts too.

    Tennis used to be a popular sport in Mhow Club those days and as a YO one could have a game with the Commandant and his wife on the Club Courts. Brig Chakarbuti also excelled in dramatics.

    They settled down in Wellington after retirement, in a very nice cottage, not far from Defence Services Staff College. All the senior officers when visiting DSSC made it a point to pay their respects to the great Signaler and his Lady wife and enjoy their company and hospitality.

    In the passing away of Brig H Chukerbuti, the Corps has lost one of its very distinguished and illustrious senior Veteran. This is a great loss to the Corps indeed.

    Our deepest condolences to the Bereaved Family. May God rest the departed soul in peace.

    Lt Gen Harbhajan Singh

    Saturday, November 8, 2008

    Lt Col Raj Kumar Gupta

    Dear Signallers,

    I am sad to inform you that IC-6860 Lt Col Raj Kumar Gupta (Retd), left for his heavenly abode on 03 Nov 2008 at 2315 hrs. The cremation took place on 04 Nov 08 at Green Park Crematorium, New Delhi.

    We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss. Survived by Mrs Vimla Gupta.

    Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli" for Late Col Raj Kumar Gupta, please send it for being posted to our weblog-
    The Shradhanjli be kindly emailed to- Col James Kanagaraj, The Moderator at- reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com

    In sorrow,
    Chander Kamboj

    Thursday, November 6, 2008

    Brig H Chukerbuti

    I learn with great sadness, the demise of Brig Chukerbuti (Retd) on 04 Nov 2008 at TN. I did meet him briefly in mid sixties and realized that he was one of the finest officers of the Corps and has made an unsung contribution. May God bless his soul to rest in peace and give abundant strength to the bereaved family to bear the loss. It is a great loss to the Corps as well.
    I offer my profound condolences to family members and dear ones.

    Col JL Chatterji (Retd)

    Wednesday, November 5, 2008

    Brig H Chukerbuti

    Dear Signallers,

    I am sad to inform you that one of our very popular veterans , IC-241 Brig H Chukerbuti (Retd), left for his heavenly abode on 04 Nov 08. The cremation will take place at Wellington, Nilgiris on 06 Nov 08.

    We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

    In sorrow-
    Chander Kamboj

    Monday, October 27, 2008

    Lt Col Avatar Singh

    Lt Col Avtar Singh TOT was a great Signaler, Officer and Gentleman. Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Avtar Singh and Family members on his passing away. May God rest the departed soul in peace.

    Avtar was one of the senior TOT. Technically very proficient, dedicated, dependable and innovative. He was also very polite, always smiling and cheerful.

    Lt Col Avtar Singh belonged to a generation of our mechanics who were pioneers to take on the repair and maintenance of Radio, Carrier, Line Equipment, when the British Signalers left as a result of India gaining independence on 15 Aug 1947. They shouldered the responsibility admirably indeed.

    Lt Col Avtar Singh along with a few more were sent to UK for training as Foreman of Signals and he as also his colleagues took on challenging assignments in Army HQ and Command Signal Regiments as also at MCTE.

    The services of Lt Col Avtar Singh and set of Foremen and TOsT of that era need to be recognized and eulogized by the Corps.

    Harbhajan Singh
    Lt Gen

    Friday, October 24, 2008

    Lt Col Avatar Singh

    Dear Signallers,
    I am sad to inform that SL-66 Lt Col Avtar Singh, Veteran Signaller, left for his heavenly abode on 13 Oct 08.
    We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss. Next of Kin Mrs Dalip Kaur (Wife)

    Those of you who have known Col Avtar Singh, may kindly like to write a "Shradhanjli" for him and send it for being posted on our weblog.

    In sorrow -
    Chander Kamboj.

    Dear Sir,
    We regret to inform you the sad demise of SL-66 Lt Col Avtar Singh, (Retd) on 13 Oct 2008.
    The particulars of offr are as under:-
    1. IC No, Rank & Name : SL-66, Lt Col Avtar Singh, (Retd)
    2. Name of NOK : Mrs Dalip Kaur (Wife)
    3. Date of Birth : 01 Mar 1924
    4. Date of Commission : 11 Jan 1954
    7. Date of Retirement : 01 Mar 1984
    8. Date of Demise : 13 Oct 2008, 1230 hrs (A/N)
    9. Place of Cremation : Beriwala Bagh, Subhas Nagar, Crematorium, New Delhi.
    10. Date of cremation : 14 Oct 2008 at 1400hrs
    11. Children:
    (a) Mrs Inderjeet Sethi (Daughter),
    (b) Mr Jagmohan Singh (Son)
    (c) Mrs Raminder Kaur (Daughter)
    (d) Mrs Maninder Kaur (Daughter)
    Regards

    Lt Col AS Mankoo
    Dir Sigs Adm

    It is sad to learn about demise of Col Avtar Singh. One of the finest soul I have come across in my life who extended great respect to his peers, equals and subordinates. He was a work horse. His first attraction was always 'SIGNALS'.

    Please convey our deepest condolences to Mrs Avtar Singh and his children and we pray to the Almighty God to grant them strength to bear this abominable loss. We miss a seasoned veteran.

    Col JL CHATTERJI

    Kindly convey our condolences to Mrs. Avtar singh and her children on the sad demise of their husband/ father. Avtar served under me years back.
    May his soul rest in peace

    Israel Jayakaran, Colonel, Sigs, Chennai

    Tuesday, October 7, 2008

    Sam and Ghini Mehta

    My wife and I had the privelege of knowing Sam and Ghini Mehta when we were posted together in the School of Signals (now MCTE) Mhow in the mid- fifties. They were a very likeable and warm- hearted couple. Ghini brought good cheer to any social gathering and I remember her with a smile on her face always. May God bless her soul.

    M S Sodhi
    (Former SOinC)

    Thursday, October 2, 2008

    Ghini Mehta, wife of Late Lt Col Sam N Mehta

    Dear Signallers,

    I am sad to inform you about the sad demise of Mrs Ghini Mehta, wife of Late Lt Col Sam N Mehta. She left for her heavenly abode on 01 Oct 2008.

    The Uthavna (last Parsi rites) will be held at 4.00 PM, on 03 Oct 08, at Delhi Parsi Anjuman, Delhi Gate, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Delhi.
    Next of Kin: Shri Behram Mehta

    We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss. Those of you who wish to write a "Shradhanjli", kindly email to: reportmysignalblogspot@gmail.com

    In sorrow-
    Chander Kamboj.
    PS - I have not been able to ascertain seniority of Late Col Sam N Mehta. All I am told is that he was very senior Veteran Signaller.

    Dear Chander,

    Col Sam Mehta was a very senior veteran of WW II vintage. He was psc and in 1958 he was 2iC of 19 Inf Div Sig Regt first under the then Lt Col RNR Sawney and then under JV Pinto. I would put his commission date some time in 1943/44.

    As I recall he served as Lt Col in the personnel dte of AHQ during 1960 onward. Later he was in the then School of Signals (c 1965 and subsequently DCSO in PH&HP area in Ambala during c1967.

    Col Sam Mehta was a thorough gentleman, very erudite and a soldier of the old school. Ghini Mehta was a very affectionate lady, perfect housewife and a devoted mother. The young officers were always welcome in their home.

    Those who came in contact with the Mehtas can never forget them. Sam Mehta passed away a few years back. His last rite service was attended by a large number of veterans and serving officers. Gen Sethna paid rich tributes to him then.

    Kind regards,
    Maj Gen VK Khanna

    Sunday, September 21, 2008

    Col OP Kalra

    Friends. It is nostalgic to read such affectionate Shradhanjlis to dear Col OP Kalra, who left us so suddenly for his heavenly abode. OP was indeed a thorough gentleman, man of few words, so likeable, very able and highly professional. We worked together for over a year in Signals 9 in early 1980s and I carry very fond memories of him.

    It is indeed very sad that his passing away was so untimely and he left us all so early in life. Our profound condolences to Mrs. Kalra and the Family. We share their grief. May God rest the departed soul in peace.

    We started this Blog in Dec 2007 for friends and colleagues to be able to express their feelings when one or the other colleague and comrade in arms leaves this World. It is indeed satisfying that the Blog is bringing us together in such times of grief and sorrow, as passing away of Col OP Kalra.

    Harbhajan Singh
    Lt Gen (Retd)

    Thursday, September 18, 2008

    Col OP Kalra

    About Col Kalra - where do I begin? He has to be one of the friendliest and nicest people I have ever met. I consider it my misfortune that I had not served with him or not really known him during my service tenure except a few meetings in 1996-97 when we were both stationed at Pune. It was later after both of us moved to Delhi post retirement and we were staying in the same Colony/neighbor hood that we became close friends – particularly my wife Raj and Mamta Kalra became thicker than even sisters. In the short time we knew each other - we shared our pasts, talked of our futures, and had a huge amount of fun. Words cannot begin to ease the pain so many of us are feeling. I just have to be happy that I was one of the lucky people to have known him, be grateful for all the wonderful memories I have of him................. there is a new star shining brightly in the sky tonight. I'll miss him.

    Brig Rajender Kukreja (Retd)

    Col OP Kalra was a great and pious soul. He was my CO at Ahmedabad and I have tremendous regard, respect and affection for him. He was especially supportive of me as I was facing so many problems at that juncture. May God give peace to the departed soul and strength to his family members

    Col Navin Srivastava (Retd)

    Tuesday, September 16, 2008

    Col OP Kalra

    My association with Col O P Kalra (TOMMY) goes back to 1955 when we joined King Georges School, Belgaum together in January of that Year. We went to NDA (26th Course)in 1961 & got commissioned in the Corps of Signals in 1965. We had always been in constant touch with each other both while in service as well as after we retired from the army. Col Kalra was always bubbling with energy and was source of inspiration to all.

    I recall, he was always among the first three in the class at school. When Principal Mani and school authorities decided to give him a double promotion- he justified their decision and faith in him by topping the higher class too.

    OP was one year older to me in age but many years younger in spirit. No wonder he was made Head Boy of Junior school- the Only Senior Boy in Junior school where young boys could look up to him as Role Model.

    OP was always physically fit and could play all games. Who can forget his atheletism in the hockey field?

    Col OP Kalra was a brilliant officer- technically and tactically sound. He commanded a Div Sig Regt, the EDP Centre and was a Battalion Commander at IMA- no mean feat for a SIGNALS officer. If he did not rise to higher heights- I can only say it is the army’s and the Corps’ loss which was encashed by IBM and Patni Computers.

    Tommy was a gentleman and a true friend with infectious smile. One could count on him always and every time.

    His loss will be felt by the entire KALRA Family and Near Dear ones (particularly Mamta Bhabhi; Tanu, Deepak & Saisha; Chirag (Novy) & Sherri). I do hope and pray to Almighty to give them and the family lot of strength to bear this irreparable loss.

    “Hey Bhagwan aap Om Prakash Kalra ko apni sharan lena aur usko apne charno main jagah dena”

    Lt Col VK Grover (Retd)

    Col OP Kalra

    Our dearest Tommy is no more. For the dam busters of Bravo Squadron, the void will never be filled. When we reported at Kharakvasla on 12thy July 1961, the dam had just been breached. Naturally, everyone, especially the dreaded second termers, was busy pitching tents for the homeless people whose villages had been inundated, and left us alone for a few days. We were perhaps the only ones who were happy with the dam being breached, and that is how the course got its name – dam busters.

    Om Prakash Kalra was the most liked member of the course. He never said an unkind word to anyone, and was perhaps the only one who never had an argument, a rare feat in the NDA. His name first became Omi; then Omi the God, before finally becoming Tommy. If one ran short of toothpaste or shaving blades, Tommy’s cabin was the first port of call. In later years, if one wanted something done, Tommy was the one who could be counted on to deliver. Of course, all of us in the squadron were very close to him. With me, there was another reason for nearness - when we were commissioned and IC numbers were allotted, Tommy became my immediate senior.

    I know that all of us have to go some day. But not everyone leaves an empty space. Tommy was like that. I know Mamta and the children will miss him forever. We will also miss him, for a long time. We pray for his soul and for his loved ones – may God give them the strength to bear the loss. Of course, we need not worry about Tommy’s whereabouts – we know where God resides.

    VK Singh

    I first came in contact with OP when he was doing his SODE and I was doing my CC course at Mhow. Even during that short association I could not escape being influenced by his brilliant intellect and affable nature. Later I had even closer association with him when we both did the sme EDPS course at Mhow. Brilliant as he was, his standing first on the course was no surprise to any of us. More than that he was extremely friendly and cooperative, and willingly shared his knowledge wih others. His passing away so early in life is a tragic loss for all the signals fraternity. May God grant peace to his soul and courage to his family members to bear his absence.

    Col SK Paranjape

    Though I have not known Col OP Kalra, being a veteran Signaller I pay my 'shradhanjali' to the departed soul. May his soul rest in peace. May God give his family and near and dears the courage to bear the loss.

    Lt Col MG Kapoor
    Advocate

    I was really shocked to hear about the sad demise of Col O P Kalra from Col Ramtri. How can this happen to such an active and fit person.

    It was only a year ago that He and I had a very good lunch at the Arun Vihar Club, Noida, and talked about old times and the IT industry in general.

    I was fortunate to induct such a fine person, Col Kalra, into the IT industry as head of administration and also my consultant for every thing else that setting up of a new office needs when I was setting up the new IBM office at Gurgaon for IBM Global Services Exports (which has grown very very large now).

    I will always remember Col Kalra as a thorough gentleman, very balanced, sincere, hard working, respecting, pleasant, well dressed colleague. He was very shy of asking anything for himself but took up every duty with great involvement. We will miss him and pray for peace for his soul.

    - Dr Asha Goya

    I knew Col OP Kalra for over 53 years. In his passing away I have lost a real friend. I have written a small "shradhanjali". You may like to give it a place in the blog. Regards

    Virender
    Lt Col VK Grover(Retd)

    Lt Col KL Sethi

    Dear Signallers,
    Reference email from Dir Sigs Adm, Dte Gen of Signals.
    I am sad to inform you about the demise of SL 1409L Lt Col KL Sethi, who left for his heavenly abode on 12 Sep 08.
    We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
    In Sorrow,
    Brig CS Kamboj, VSM (Retd)

    Sunday, September 14, 2008

    Col OP Kalra

    Dear Signallers,

    I am sad to inform you that one of our veteran members of "Report My Signal", Col OP Kalra, commissioned to Corps of Signals in June 1965, left for his heavenly abode early morning of 14 Sep 08. He breathed his last in Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi. He was suffering with some stomach ailment. The cremation will take place at 4.00 PM on 14 Sep 08 at Lodhi Road Crematorium, New Delhi.

    We offer our profound condolences to Mrs Mamta Kalra. We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

    In sorrow -
    Chander Kamboj

    Wednesday, September 10, 2008

    Maj Dalip Singh

    We regret to inform you about the passing away of one of our veterans, Maj Dalip Singh, Ciphers, on 9 Sep 2008 at Chandigarh. A devoted and dedicated Officer of the Corps of Signals who is no more with us.
    We offer our profound condolences to the bereaved family members. May God bless his soul.

    Thursday, August 21, 2008

    Lt Col Prem Singh

    Dear Members,
    I am sad to inform you about the demise of our Signals Veteran, IC- 5917, Lt Col Prem Singh, on 11 Aug 08 at Ambala. Next of kin: Mrs Prem Singh.
    The information came through Lt Gen YS Panwar, Commandant MCTE. His email, just received, is appended below.
    We pray to Almighty God to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all the near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
    In sorrow -
    Chander Kamboj.

    Respected Brig Kamboj,
    I have learnt about the sad demise of one of our veterans, IC 5917, Lt Col Prem Singh, a Dec 1951 commissioned officer, who was residing at Ambala. He died on 11 Aug 08. His elder son is Col Ashok Parmar.
    Yati Panwar

    Saturday, July 26, 2008

    Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw: Remembered by a Signal Officer

    I had some personal experiences with Field Marshal Manekshaw. At the meeting held on 18th June, I felt it was all too personal and may not be in good taste to make a personal relationship , public. My feelings were so great that ultimately , thought of good behaviour succumbed to sentiments.

    I had the good fortune of meeting the Field Marshal , for the first time , in 1949 . He was then a Colonel . I was then a major in the Area HQ in Bombay. He was on a visit to Bombay and I had to receive him at the air port and escort him to the suite allotted to him in the mess. It was a long drive to Colaba. Those days , even Lt Cols were few, what to talk about a full colonel and that too one from Army HQ. I did not know how to start . He started off by saying, during office hours I am Col Manekshaw. Outside office hours, I am Sam. What about you he asked. I said I am Major Krishnamoorthy of Signals– still slightly nervous. I suppose your friends must be calling you krish. I said coyly, yes sir. Throughout the journey, which I think lasted almost an hour, he kept on talking to me with Krish, almost in every other sentence. May be he was trying to get my embarrassment out of me.

    Years passed by. We were now in 1955– six years later. He had become a Brigadier by then and was commanding a Brigade in Ferozepore . I was still a major in the then E P area in Jullunder, sweating for my next rank. As ill luck would have it, I was asked by the G 1 of the Area to go on a recce and find suitable areas for an exercise, for the Ferozpur brigade. Courtesy demanded that I report to the BM and if he permitted, to drop in to pay my respects to the Bde Commander. Least did I realize that he was the same Manekshaw I had met in 1949. Come in krish , was the greeting I heard. A short meeting and 6 years ago. He is able to connect me with my pet name. I was overwhelmed – to be honest shocked. He said, I am glad that you have been selected to set a paper for my promotion examination. Do you remember that when you were doing your staff college in Wellington in1952-53, you asked your DS, Lt Col Jagjit Singh, for certain clarifications. You actually asked for the DS solution. I assure you I wont do that to you. We both laughed, had a quick cup of tea and parted .

    Another 13 years passed. It was 1968. The Field Marshal, then a General was the Army chief. I had taken slightly premature retirement in the rank of Col. I won the allotment of an Indian Oil Petroleum Dealership, against another 299 applicants pitted against me, in an open competition. The system of routing allotment of dealership, through resettlement was not in vogue then. I wanted to be different. I thought why not I ask the Army chief to inaugurate the Petrol pump, as this was the first allotment for an ex-serviceman. Friends thought I wasfoolish. However, no one had the courage to openly discourage me. I called up the Chief's office and said that I wanted to speak to the Chief. The ADC, who took the details, asked me to wait. A few minutes later, I heard I happy voice. Is that you Krish, my old examiner. When would you like to come over. I got an appointment, to the disappointment of the ADC. I placed my request. First he was reluctant. However, I knew the language he liked. So I said Sir, this is the first time a retired officer has got a pump against odds. I want to dedicate this to my service brethren, who in due course of time will retire and may choose to take to this trade . I would like to make this a training centre for such aspirants and I want this to be started by you. Done was the reply. DONE. He did inaugurate it and I remained the darling of Indian oil for two decades.

    Many years later, the bee of going through the ballot box bit me. I wrote to him, requesting him to give me his blessings and become the Patron–in -chief. Pat came the reply My blessings for the Commandant of The IOC training centre is there but one suggestion - make sure that there is a two bed cell in Tihar jail. As soon as the Madam Prime Minister hears about this, that is where both of us would be.

    That is the GREAT MANEKSHAW I KNEW, I LOVED AND I HAVE LOST at the cruel hand of destiny. Now that the formation of a political Party is being thought of, I wish we could posthumously adopt him not as the patron-in chief but as the Patron Angel. If we have his blessings from heaven, no power on earth or even Heaven can stand between us and success.

    Col MS Krishnamoorthy (Retd)

    Monday, July 14, 2008

    Sam Bahadur remembered by a Signal Officer

    My dear Chander,
    I have appended below, just a few personal memories on my brief, but most significant (to me), contact with the late Field Marshal Sam “Bahadur” Manekshaw when he was Chief of Army Staff at Army HQ New Delhi.
    Cheers!
    Ossie

    I got to know The Chief General Sam Manekshaw on a personal basis during my last year at Sigs-9, Army HQ, just prior to leaving for England, in 1971. He had a complex audio system– speech and music– installed in his bedroom suite at his official residence in New Delhi. However, something went wrong with it– an intermittent fault– and no one was keen to try and fix it, lest they mess things up and incur his wrath!

    I had just completed the Technical Staff College Course– my boss, the Signal Officer in Chief, volunteered my services. It was well known that I couldn’t resist a challenge like this, being an avid radio ham!! When I turned up at the august residence and was taken to the Chief’s quarters, I was stunned with the amount of foreign made electronic gear he had around the place. The problem was simple though– a crackle which appeared intermittently while he was listening to his favourite music – an obvious case of a faulty connector. However, when I tried to get at the wiring and connectors, he wouldn’t let me get anywhere near for fear of my messing it up! So, I went back to my boss and asked for a colleague, Major Nandrajog– an equally brash electronics fanatic– to accompany me on my next visit to the Chief’s quarters! The plan was that one of us would distract him while the other would get at the connectors– but no dice. He wouldn’t have it! So we asked him for all the technical literature he had and we spread it out all over the floor of his large bedroom suite. We then began crawling about, following the circuit diagrams and speculating where the problem could be – ignoring him completely. He was very surprised– and impressed– that we could follow the circuit diagrams!! He then relented and gave us a free hand! We soon located the offending connector, but since an original replacement was not available, I had to make one up with stuff I bought from a shop in Old Delhi. This sorted out the problem– and we went on and checked the entire system up– this pleased him no end!!

    “However, about the same time, I had decided to apply for premature retirement– through the proper channels– to be able to join my wife, Helen, and the girls, who were already in England, by this time. I didn’t mention this to the Chief! One day, out of the blue, his ADC appeared at my Mess in a staff car, saying the Chief had summoned me to his quarters– apparently my application must have reached his desk!! After giving me a right old rollicking about it all, he wanted to know who would look after his precious equipment if I wasn’t there to do so any more! I convinced him that the colleague I had brought along with me initially, Major Nandrajog, was fully capable of handling the situation. This mollified him a bit. A few days later I was once again summoned to appear before him– but this time he presented me with an ornamental Khukri in a silver encrusted scabbard and a bottle of whiskey– and wished me well! A few days later, I was in England, when all hell broke loose on the Eastern front– the birth pangs of a new nation– Bangladesh!!

    “And now the Grand Old Man is no more! I have often wished I had had the opportunity to serve directly under him in an official capacity– but then, perhaps, this informal contact that I did have, was for the best!!”

    Maj OA Pereira (Retd)
    United Kingdom

    Friday, July 11, 2008

    Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw

    It is something perhaps strange for a naval officer to write an ode for a Field Marshal. But then FM Sam Manekshaw was such a humane person to anyone who wore a uniform and of course the perfect gentleman that it becomes incumbent to do so.

    It was the summer of 1971. A young naval Lieutenant was driving down KG Avenue New Delhi on his Vespa. He was feeling very proud as he had just collected his Parchment Commission and was carrying it back to his cabin. Suddenly a Staff car displaying four stars overtook him and stopped ahead of him. Out came the ADC to the naval officer to say that the General wanted to speak to him. Wondering what he had done the young naval officer approached the car, it was not every day that the Army Chief stopped his vehicle on the road to summon a naval officer. General SH Manekshaw brusquely bottled me for not paying the due respect to my Commission. Saying that he handed my Parchment back with the words look after it son and drove away.

    I wondered how many Chiefs would observe something falling of a scooter, stop the vehicle, pick it up, seeing that it was a Parchment summon the young officer and return it. But then every Chief was not Sam Bahudar.

    Good bye and adieu
    Barin Ghose (Indian Navy)

    The Soldiers General

    Sam Bahadur is dead, the Manekshaw mystique is immortal. As long as the Indian Army retains its traditions and ethos, memories of its first Field Marshal will serve to inspire, remain a matter of honour and pride. For even while his critics – greatness always attracts them – might question his strategic capabilities they would have no hesitation in attesting to a unique hallmark: he was an unrivalled leader of men. The soldier's general, he went on to become the outstanding personality of his time. Even if he had not led India to the most decisive military victory in its history, Sam would have left an indelible impression on everyone who interacted with him. To few others would the term "living legend" have been so perfectly applicable.

    Legend, however, is no respecter of fact and such was Sam's aura that exaggerated stories about him abound and few challenged their authenticity. He certainly did not, and relished basking in glory. Not for him was a mistaken sense of humility, yet he was devoid of even a trace of arrogance and blessed in abundance with that priceless but rare capacity to laugh at himself. The man who clashed with Krishna Menon, had a lively relationship with Indira Gandhi could also be gentle. He would kneel or bend when talking to a child – to establish eye-contact that endeared.

    For the record, SHFJ Manekshaw was born on 3 April 1914 in Amristar, educated at Sherwood College, Nainital and was among the first batch of Indian Commissioned Officers in 1934. He won a Military Cross in Burma – Maj Gen Cowans taking his own medal from his tunic to decorate the young officer on a hospital bed – organized the airlift to Srinagar in 1947, fought the Chinese, and of course, won the 1971 War. For which he was elevated a Padma Vibhushan and then promoted the Indian Army's first Field Marshal. In between he came close to being sacked by the acerbic Krishna Menon.

    The record, impressive though it is, however is not what Sam Manekshaw was all about. His singular magic is not to be measured by decorations earned, appointments held or other such mundane accomplishments by which lesser mortals are evaluated. He was a man who could be ruthlessly efficient, and critical to that efficiency was getting the right man to do the right job – such as leaving much of the planning for the Bangladesh Operations to Lieutenant General JFR Jacob, then Chief of Staff at Headquarters, Eastern Command.

    Sam was not a Gorkha by birth having been commissioned into the Frontier Force Rifles that went to the Pakistan Army when assets were divided at Independence/Partition. But the men with slouch hats never had a more illustrious "adopted son". He loved them, they loved him. He once declared that a man who said he had never known fear was "either a liar – or a Gorkha". Not surprisingly, at his last public function in the Capital to mark his entering his 90th year he cut his birthday cake with silver khukri!

    While he was ever upright – in every sense of the word – Sam was no puritan. When the Army Commander visited him in hospital in Burma and asked if he wanted anything, he sought "two Scotches before dinner". He once confessed that he and his wife used separate bedrooms since she could not put up with his snoring -- adding that "funny, no other woman has complained." Yet he respected others, and when attending a function in a Delhi school in 1972 he bowed before a lady who had been his teacher at Sherwood.

    A darling of the media he was, and it came so naturally. On the eve of his becoming Army Chief he noted a leading photograph stooping low to "shoot" him at a particular angle. Manekshaw offered to even stand on his head if that would guarantee his picture on the front page. The media, alas, also got him into hot water. An interviewer (after the 1971 war) asked what would have happened had he gone with his regiment to the Pakistan army. "Then Pakistan would have won the war" he chuckled. Cold print did not reflect the warmth of his humour and New Delhi's politician's turned the heat on him.

    A darling of his men too. Story goes that when Naga rebels took a Gorkha captive he rushed to the area, berated his subordinates, insisted on preparations to "take out" the village, only to be unofficially informed that the Gorkha was actually philandering there. The "capture" had been shown to cover up his absence. Messages went out and the soldier returned, to face much flak from his officers. Sam only embraced the guy, and in a whisper queried, "was she worth it, son". Who would not die for that kind of a leader?

    Manekshaw's passing to the battlefield of beyond will, undoubtedly, be mourned across a vast spectrum of humanity, even soldiers of the army he "defeated" would acknowledge how he kept his promise on the treatment of prisoners-of-war. Sam would probably chuckle at all the tributes paid to him, for he could actually be shy on occasions. All he would seek – nay demand – as a mark of respect was that India always honours its soldiers and, in return, the army ever proves itself worthy of that honour.

    KEITH FLORY

    Wednesday, July 2, 2008

    Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw


    From: Cdr Arun Saigal

    I reproduce below Adm Nanda's sentiments recorded in Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw's condolence book at the Amar Jawan Jyoti India Gate on Tues 01 July 2008:

    I pay my respects and admiration on behalf of the Officers and Men of the Indian Navy that I proudly commanded in 1971. I have many fond personal memories of the times spent together planning the liberation of East Pakistan.
    Dear friend and colleague R.I.P

    Signed
    Admiral SM Nanda
    CNS 1971

    Letter From Sam to Nanda

    An Ode To Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw


    Here lies a soldier, with respect and dignity,
    For whom the, country came first, and then family,
    He fought for his country ,to bring pride and glory.
    Now resting in peace, with honour and solemnity.
    He will live forever, in a soldiers memory
    As they know, he made us feel proud, of our country.
    Fondly, called 'Sam' – a Field Marshal so great!
    By all his colleagues and his course mates.
    He lived by reputation, of being a great soldier.
    Having an instinct, to fight like a tiger
    Admired by all, and feared by his foe,
    A gentleman soldier, who could never say NO!
    He created history, with his actions and deeds,
    By dividing a country, which was a feat!
    Thus, bringing the adversaries, to their knees.
    Such was his awe and inspiration profuse,
    Even, adversaries' admitted, which they cannot not refuse.
    Now at 94, when he is no more,
    His memories shall haunt, and continue to glow.
    He was a soldier, from the core of his heart,
    And, always been cheerful, right from the start!
    His fame and glory was such, even appreciated by the west.
    Yet, in his own country, he was quietly put to rest!
    So, the absence of big wigs from his funeral, gave us a start!!
    Which opened up channels, for many to retort.
    'Sam Bahadur the great', as called by soldiers your mates.
    You shall live forever, in our hearts, which no one can replicate.

    Col JJ Smith (Bihar Regt)

    Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw

    Myself and my wife heard the sad news of the demise of our beloved ex chief who lived long years to inpsire all of us. He was a grand new model of insiring leadership.

    While we were in UK years ago during years 1972-1976 on posting at the HCI London, we had the opportunity to meet him and his wife, while he was on visit to UK defence forces on invitiation from British Government. During his short visit I was nominated to look after him and Mrs Maneksha as his staff officer. I had acompanied Mrs Manekshaw on her shopping tour while Field Marshal was busy with his round of visits.

    Both were so kind informal and loving.
    We wish his peace.

    Maj Gen Prabhakar B Deshpande (Retd) and family

    Tuesday, July 1, 2008

    Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw of Wellington

    I remember in Jun 1987 Manekshaw's biography was released. The event took place on the lawns of DSSC. Maj Gen Billimoria was the Commandant. I was posted then at MRC Wellington as GSO1 (Trg). All the Station Officers were present at the DSSC for the event. On the dot at 1630 h the Field Marshal was driven in through the gates of DSSC with a Fanfare by the MRC Band. He arrived in his car bearing Five Stars. He was in full dress whereas we were all in combinations.

    He was as cheerful as ever. The official book release was conducted amidst his non stop chatter and giggles by others on the dais. As he took the mike his LO held out for him a copy which was flagged in many pages. He commended the author and publisher and then held up his copy and said, "Well chaps, this is my biography and you may buy the book if you feel like. I don't get a single paise out of the sale. That doesn't matter. But I want something from the author. My name is misspelt in seven places! I have flagged the pages where I have been referred to by names that are not mine. He must promise me that he will correct them in the next edition......if there is a next edition!"

    Another time, one evening, a few of us had gone to MH Welligton to look up one of our officers who had been admitted there. FM Manekshaw had also come there to see some other patient. As we stood around on the verandah of the ward he walked up to us and said, Hi, Chaps! Do you all know me?" When we said yes he enquired about the officer and said "Eventually we all get well inspite of the doctors. So don't worry".

    And he went on, "Do you know, my father was a doctor. I was delivered by him. Actually I was born 'breach'. That is, I came out with my legs first. I was born a 'blue baby'. I didn't breathe or cry at birth. So my father held me up side down by my feet and gave me a tight slap. That must have stung me and I gave out my first squeal. Later in life whenever I was unbearably naughty my mother always told my father that he ought not to have slapped me then!".

    "And," he went on, "my father wanted me to be a doctor like him. I said I will only be a women's doctor so I can have a good look at you know.....(wink, wink). This angered him so much that he had me put into the Army. When I was shot up in Burma my father asked for me to be sent home for treatment and convalescence. After about three months when I was fit again and he said, "Son if you have one more drink or smoke one more cigarette you will die". I listened to him and nearly died!".
    So saying he lit up a fag and said, "Thanks chaps. I must go now. The sun has gone down and my kancha must be waiting for me with my drink".

    Sundar

    Monday, June 30, 2008

    Play it again Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw

    It was the magical summer of 1985. The narrow gauge, rack and pinion toy train shuddered to a halt at Wellington Railway Station, having brought us 6500 feet up into the Blue Mountains from dusty and hot Mettupalaiyam, where we had boarded the train. My wife and I disembarked, dusting the crumbs of an excellent continental lunch provided by the Defence Services Staff College for student officers. We understood why the Nilgiris appeared blue in colour – the tiered, lush hills were simply covered end to end with blue gum trees.
    The name Wellington made an immediate connect in my mind. “Old ‘Iron Duke’ Wellington had killed Tipu Sultan in 1799 and later won Waterloo for England from Napoleon in 1815”, I remarked to my wife, as we departed from the station named in his honour and began the climb up the mist laden, winding road to the College. “There’s Sam Bahadur, now resident at Coonoor, who won the 1971 war for us. They should rename the station for him”, I grumbled unreasonably. “He, like Wellington is also a Field Marshal; like him, was wounded in battle”. My wife glanced at me with some asperity. “Don’t be parochial. You can’t change the tide of history,” she said. Chastened, I realized she was right.
    Indeed you cannot turn the tide of history. Wellington should remain honoured in the Nilgiris. Similarly, great people will continue to come and go through Indian history, but there’ll be no one else ever to lay claim, other than the exceptional Sam - Indira combine; to creating a brave new nation, capturing 93,000 prisoners of war, returning them back with honour all within the span of a year or so of executing one of the world’s least studied and least applauded strategic level politico - military feats of all time.
    Today, as news of the passing away of this great man trickles in, my thoughts wander in time and space on aspects of the Sam we knew, first hand and by reportage…
    I recall, how, in the weekend before the Staff Course began in 1985, we undertook a pilgrimage to “Stavka”, the hill side bungalow he had outside Upper Coonoor . There was no dearth of locals on the road who helped us navigate to his home. Parking some distance away, we walked up to the white painted, Spanish looking villa and were inquiring from the Gurkha sentry about his whereabouts, when, suddenly, we were face to face with the great man in his shirt sleeves. He was working on his roses when he saw us, he said, and came down his steeply climbing driveway to meet us. He spoke in comfortable Punjabi and faultless English with my wife and I, advised me to have “serious fun” on the year long Staff College course. He was chivalrous to a fault with his uninvited guests, putting us to ease with his disarming smile and charming us with his wit and repartee.
    Kukkie recalled to the Field Marshal how, while still a fresher at school in Sanawar, she had been in the company of his daughter, Maja.. Both girls had lost contact with their peer groups while hiking to catch the school party train from Kalka. Maja, being the senior, had graciously taken Kukkie under her charge and the girls found their way to Kalka chatting about school and about their Dads. Indulgent to a fault, Sam’s philosophy was to spoil his girls, yet never let them get spoilt, is how Maja affectionately recalled him as a Father as the girls feasted on tuck bought by Maja. On Sam’s demise, this is how she recalled her Fathers qualities to the media.
    That year at Coonoor gave us a rare insight into what made him so special. On the odd occasion when he came to the Staff College for a social function, he was the cynosure of all eyes. Dapper, alert, witty, observant, gallant and blessed with a rare brand of humour which was devoid of rancour or bitterness, he held centre stage with grace and élan. On the one occasion when he spoke to the students and faculty on professional issues, he made light of his personal contribution and, instead, spoke of the need to think ‘purple’ – the colour arrived at by mixing Olive Green, Blue and Light Blue together. These are the colours of the uniforms of the Army, Navy and Air Force. It was a significant message for waging successful war, a formula tried and tested by him in 1971.
    I recall seeing him in our forward concentration area in the J&K sector in October 1971. He was moving all along the Western front, pepping up troops before the oncoming war. He was stressed and obviously tired from constant travel and the huge responsibility of waging successful war at his terms. I remember though, there was nothing unclear in the message he gave to all of us. “Remember,” he exhorted, “when you enter Pakistan , put your hands in your pockets. I will not countenance any misbehaviour, moral or material on your part. Simply do your duty and let me look after the rest”. He exited, waving his trademark swagger stick, leaving us with pulsating hearts and clear direction.
    Sam retired in 1973, becoming a Field Marshal before he did so. Life moved on. Post command of a tank regiment, I found myself back in the Staff College in 1993, this time as an Instructor. There were rather more opportunities now, to interact with the Field Marshal than as a student 10 years earlier. There was time too, to see how extraordinarily he had won a place in the hearts and minds of the people of Coonoor. Shopkeepers would feel honoured if the Field Marshal bought any thing from their shops – and he often did, pottering all over Coonoor in his little car. Never once did they offer a bill to him. In any case he did not carry money on his person. Yet, never once was there any question of delayed payment, as the Field Marshals Gurkha major domo in charge of his household unfailingly settled his dues, sent by him the very next day with more the required money. I am sure, in saying his final farewell to him, the common man in Coonoor must have cried the most.
    The last I was involved with Sam’s work was when posted in 2001 as a Brigadier, to his old Directorate in Army Headquarters, the elite Military Operations Directorate. Whenever there was a lull in activity, I would steal a moment or two to look up his work on file. His clarity of thought was an education.
    A ‘soldiers general’, a regular guy, is how posterity will see Sam. Yet, his obituaries, the extensive media coverage on his death have brought out the distaff side too. There was the problem with small minds in 1962, when he was made the target of a witch hunt in the form of a military inquiry. Then there were claims from some amongst the military fraternity, post the stunning collapse of East Pakistan, that he had not fully thought through the East Pakistan operations to their logical conclusion – the capture of Dhaka . The war fighting on the Western front in 1971 resulted in a military stalemate because it was unimaginatively conducted, some others would say. Some detractors would make an issue out of his flamboyant life style. Some one else, this time from a neighbouring country, questioned his professional integrity without providing substance or logic.
    It is good to remember, though, that the final test of how good a soldier is rests with the men he commanded. For them, Sam Bahadur had no peer. He was in a class by himself. He was correct in his military conduct, he was forthright, he communicated marvelously, he planned meticulously, could get a inter Services team to bond, to work, he had the courage of his convictions, could say “No” to the highest in the land. He brought glamour, dignity and self respect back into the Army after the 1962 debacle and honour to it after the 1971 war.
    In sum, he was a truly inspirational leader of the kind militaries the world over crave for. He was in the class of Wellington , the Iron Duke, “Hurrying Heinz”, Gen Heinz Guderian, the brilliant German tank general who helped plan and then run over France and Belgium in a lightning campaign in May 1940, Gen “Timmy” Thimayya, who was brilliant till he fell out with his political masters. The list could go on and on…
    It is good to remember too, that, be that as it might, the exceptional, planned collapse of East Pakistan against time and against formidable obstacles, the creation of a new nation after a brief war, the public display of chivalry towards 93000 legitimate prisoners and their speedy return after strict application of the Geneva Conventions is a feat of arms that must challenge military analysts the world over for study, analysis and future application if needed. Some would believe that the Air Land battle concept whose application won America and its allies the Gulf War was born out of the East Pakistan template as planned and executed by Manekshaw. Close analysis may prove the truth of this belief.
    At a time that the Armed Forces suffer from poor morale, a feeling of not getting their due in cash or in kind, at a time when the revision of the 6th Pay Commission proceedings sits uneasily in the minds of the soldier of the Army, Navy and Air Force who has given his life on trust to the nation, it is good to remember an icon like the late Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.
    Humphrey Bogart, the suave, dapper, iconic actor in the 1942 World War 2 romantic classic, “ Casablanca ”, is wrongly credited with the memorable dialogue, “Play it again, Sam. Play ‘As Time Goes By’.” It doesn’t really matter; whether spoken by Bogart or not, the words retain their magic till today…
    As a community of soldiers of all hues and colours, serving and retired, we can and must beseech the spirit of Sam Bahadur with the hope, the request: Play it again, Sam. As time goes by, spread your magic, your charisma, all over again. Let today’s soldier rededicate himself to serve his country with pride, honour, selflessness.. Let his country also recognize his worth and treat him with the honour, respect and financial stability he richly deserves. Play it again, Sam!

    Maj Gen Raj Mehta (Retd)

    Saturday, June 28, 2008

    Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw

    My homage.
    I had the privilege of being on staff course at Wellington (1961-62) where he was the Commandant. His dynamic personality and sense of humour really touched us all.
    What touched me in particular was his POSITIVE attitude. He corrected one young officer who said, "I don't think.................," General Manekshaw snapped at once, "It is negative thought. Now turn it around to say. "I think.............."

    His other pet phrase at that time was, "Gentlemen, be mentally and physically robust."

    Those two sentences of his have remained guidelines in my own life until now.
    I pray for peace of his departed soul in heaven.

    Rajinder Singh
    IC-5837
    Wellingborough, UK


    Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw was a Great Soldier and a Great Human Being. His legacy will live for ever to inspire the Defence Forces.
    We pray to God Almighty to bless the departed soul with eternal peace.

    Air Commodore (Retd) T Pannu & family

    Old soldiers never die, they just fade away. How true.
    Here was an officer who was a role model for most of us.
    His tribe no longer exists in present day defence services.
    My humble tributes to this great officer and gentleman.

    Suman Chandra

    For more read: End of an era

    Saturday, June 21, 2008

    Col NV Chalapathy

    Dear Friends,

    I wish to inform that Col NV Chalapathy (Retd)of Corps of Signals, expired on 18 Jun 2008 around 1900 hrs in a Bangalore hospital. He was cremated in Mysore on 19 Jun 08. He is survived by his wife Mrs Uma, and sons Ashwin and Maj Rohit Chalapathy, Signals, presently BM Inf Bde in J&K. He was a good friend and a great soul. We are saddened by the loss and convey our heartfelt sorrow and condolences to the grieving family members and dear ones.

    Lt Col RP Shankar (Retd)

    I am sad to inform you about the demise of one of our Veteran Signalers, Col NV Chalapathy. He left for his heavenly abode at around 1900 hrs on on 18 Jun 08. He was under treatment in Bangalore Hospital.
    We pray for to All Mighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all the near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

    Brig CS Kamboj, VSM (Retd)
    Report My Signal Forum

    Sunday, April 27, 2008

    Brig Yogesh Bhardwaj

    Dear Members,

    I am sad to inform you that Brig Yogesh Bhardwaj of Signals, left for his heavenly abode, at 2200 hrs on 26 Apr 08, at Hyderabad.
    Brig Bharadwaj had commanded 57 Mtn Div Sig Regt.
    We pray to Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul.
    We pray to Almighty to give strength to all his near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

    Brig CS Kamboj (Retd)


    It is indeed with deep sadness that I wish to inform you the sad demise of Brig(Retd) Yogesh Bhardwaj on 26 Apr 08 at about 2200 hrs. He was undergoing treatment for cancer in one of the leading cancer hospital in Hyderabad but he succumbed to it in the end. He is survived by his wife Mrs Meena Bhardwaj, son Capt Akshay and daughter Sulekha. Brig Bhardwaj also popularly known as Birdie, had commanded 57 Mtn Div Sig Regt.
    The cremation is being planned on 27 Apr 08.
    In deep sorrow,

    Ranga Aiyengar

    Monday, April 7, 2008

    Maj AK Puri

    I am sad to inform you that IC-17109 Maj AK Puri, a member of our Group "REPORT MY SIGNAL", left for his heavenly abode on 3 Apr 08.
    He had recently undergone angioplasty in Metro Hospital, Noida.

    We pray to The Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all near ones and dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.

    The 'Uthala' (last prayer ceremony) will be held on Monday, 07 Apr 08, from 4.00 to 5.00 PM, at Arun Vihar Community Centre, Sector 37, Noida.
    All Signals officers staying in Noida are requested to inform all their friends and other Signals officers, in their respective sectors, about the last prayer timings.

    In sorrow -
    Brig CS Kamboj, VSM (Retd)

    Monday, February 25, 2008

    Tribute to Maj Gen RZ Kabraji, AVSM

    Maj Gen(Retd) RZ Kabraji of the Corps of Signals passed away in Pune on 21 Feb 2008 at a ripe age of 90 plus. 'Russi', as his contemporaries called him, was a very popular personality. He led by example and always maintained a happy and highly motivated team . His appointment to various important staff and instructional duties at premier institutions and command of mountain formations, speak of his high standards of professionalism. He had a passion for outdoor activity and excelled in golf and fishing. His undying interest in Amateur radio was sustained for many a year well into the latter years of his life. He was known the world over as VU2BK and General Kab and his CW(Morse) transmissions were referred to as “music to the ears“ by fellow Hams!

    He commanded the only Armoured Divisional Signals of his time, held prestigious staff appointments in the General Staff and within the Corps, commanded a mountain brigade and a mountain division and, having done the Staff College in Quetta, before partition of the country, was the Senior Army Directing Staff in Staff College, Wellington. He was the Deputy Commandant and later Commandant of the School of Signals (now re-named Military College of Telecommunications) His last appointment was Chief of Staff of a Command HQ from where he retired in 1970 and settled in Aundh in Pune.

    I take the liberty, on behalf of all the veterans of the Corps, specially those who, like me, had the privilege of being associated with him and of paying tribute to the very fine gentleman, officer and sportsman, that General Kabraji was, We mourn his departure from our midst and offer our sympathies and condolences to his son and other near and dear ones of his family.

    M S Sodhi
    Lt Gen (Retd)
    Former SO in C

    Obituary- Maj Gen RZ Kabraji, AVSM

    Maj Gen (Retd) Rustom Zal Kabraji, AVSM, who passed away on 21 Feb 2008 at a ripe age of over 90 yrs was a most venerable, illustrious and likeable personalities of our Corps. He had an extremely distinguished and enviable career both within and outside the Corps, which hardly anyone else has been able to match. He commanded the prestigious 1 Armd Div Sig Regt, was CSO of Eastern Command and SO 1 at both Eastern and Southern Commands.

    He held the appointment of Deputy as well as Commandant MCTE (then the School of Signals) and left his indelible mark. To quote the Editor of the Signalman from the July 1963 issue, “… he guided its (The Signalman) destinies and during this p[eriod it has grown in stature and quality…..as Commandant of the School of Signals he has left his mark in Mhow, particularly in the local populace, both military and civil……Brig and Mrs Kabraji were extremely popular in all circles, social and official.

    It was in being selected for appointments outside the Corps that Maj Gen Kabraji did the Corps proud. He was the First officer from the Corps to be selected to command a Brigade (61 Mtn Bde) and was the second officer of the Corps to command a Division (6 Mtn Div). He was also a DS Coord at the Staff College and the only officer of the Corps to be the Chief of Staff of a Command (Southern Command).

    While in Eastern Command, he was appointed, along with Lt Gen JS Aurora, by Lt Gen Henderson Brooks to pursue the famous ‘Henderson Brooks Report’.

    In the field of sports, hobbies and adventure, the late General was a very enthusiastic golfer and actively promoted the game at Mhow. He was also a keen angler and some of his fishing stories, especially when he was GOC 6 Mtn Div have gone down in history. He was a very active HAM (VU 2 BK) and pusued his hobby right till the end of his life. His excellent CW operating techniques were known the world over and foreign HAMs always comment “General KB…..his CW is like music to our ears!”.

    Some of our veterans who served under him fondly referred to General Kabraji as being the ‘Life of our Corps’. In his death the Corps has lost a leading light, a lovable personality and a role model. The General lived a full and active life to the very end and we in the Corps would always revere him for his contribution par excellence to our Corps.

    On behalf of all Signallers and particularly those at MCTE, pray to God for the departed soul to rest in peace and wish his near and dear all strength to bear this irreparable loss.

    Lt Gen YS Panwar, Commandant, MCTE

    PS
    Mr Zal Kabraji in conveying the sad news of the death of dear father to me said that the family wanted to convey the news only to MCTE because of the great emotional attachment the late General had with the institution he commanded for three long years.

    Facets of Maj Gen RZ Kabraji, AVSM

    Letter from son of late Maj Gen (Retd) Rustom Zal Kabraji, AVSM to LT Gen YS Panwar, Commandant, MCTE, Mhow.

    Dear General,

    This refers to our phone conversation regarding the sad demise of my father Maj Gen Rustom Zal Kabraji, AVSM (Retd).He passed away on the night of 21 February 2008. He was at the age of 90+. He was an old and respected officer in the Corps of Signals and some of his juniors aptly described him as the Life of the Corps !

    He retired from the army on 1 June 1970 as Chief of Staff,Southern Command, Pune. At this time he was also Hon. ADC General to the President of India. The other prestigious appointments held by him during his service career were :

    1. SO1 Eastern Command at that time located in Ranchi.

    2. CO 1st Armoured Div Signal Regiment. This Div at the time had the famous Gen J N Chaudhari as its GOC.

    3. G1 19 Div, Baramullah.

    4. SO1 Southern Command, Pune.

    5. Chief DS Coord, Staff College, Wellington.

    6. Dy Commandant and again Commandant, School of Signals, Mhow.

    7. CSO Eastern Command, Calcutta.

    8. Commander 61 Mtn Brigade, where he was responsible for the liberation of rebel held Mizoram. He is the first General Officer from the Corps of Signals to command a mountain brigade in the Indian Army.

    9. GOC 6 Mtn Div, Bareilly. He was then only the second General Officer from the Corps of Signals to command a fighting division.

    While in Eastern Command, he was appointed by Lt Gen Henderson Brooks to pursue the famous "Henderson Brooks" report along with Gen Jagjit Singh Aurora.

    He did his Staff College from Quetta.

    My father was a keen golfer and he promoted the game when he was Comdt at School of Signals, Mhow. He was a very keen Radio Ham (VU 2 BK) and actively pursued the hobby right till the very end. His First Class CW operating techniques are known world over and foreign hams always comment, General "KAB" as he was fondly known as - "his CW is like music to our ears"!

    He was instrumental along with Brig P S Gill to lead one of the first all army Ham Expeditions to Bhutan in 1962, giving the world Radio Amateurs to contact Bhutan for the very first time.

    He was a keen angler and some of his fishing stories have gone down in history, specially when he was GOC 6 Mtn Div in the UP-Tibet area.

    General, all this is from memory and as authentic as I can put down on paper, giving insights of my father, for the modern and newer generation Signal Corps.

    Regards

    Zal Kabraji

    Address: 55 Aand Park, Aundh, Pune 411 007
    Tel: +91 20 2588 0759

    Sunday, February 24, 2008

    Snippets of Maj Gen RZ Kabraji, AVSM

    As is well known, he was a keen Ham. Another keen ham was Gen Umrao Singh,(US VU2) known as Uncle Sam. He was my wife's late uncle. According to him- I was then posted in Mhow in 1971/72- the worst signal was put out by the Signal School, and the only Ham in Signals was KAB.

    When he was a brigade commander, his sparrow was RK Chopra. He was doing SODE 20 when I was doing SODE 22. He lived opposite me in CME. I often saw Gen Kabraji visiting Chopra on Sundays. Chopra, of course, was a legendary character who rarely wore shoes to class - he was usually in Chappals. He told me the story about the line that was constructed by him when he was in Kabraji's brigade. I have written about it in Sam Manekshaw's biography in my book LEADERSHIP IN THE IiNDIAN ARMY - BIOGRAPHIES OF TWELEVE SOLDIERS. It is reproduced below.

    In December 1963, Sam was appointed GOC-in-C Western Command. He remained there for only a year, before moving to Eastern Command as Army Commander in November 1964. During one of his visits to Mizo hills, he found that the communications were very bad. When he asked the reason, he was told that the Post and Telegraph Department had been asked to provide the telephone line, but it was likely to take at least 4-5 years since the distance was over 200 Kms. " That is too much, " said Sam. " Can't we do it ourselves ?" He was told that according to the Telegraph Act, only the Post and Telegraph Department could own telephone and telegraph lines and the Army had to hire it from them. This conversation was taking place over a glass of beer in the brigade officers mess. Brigadier R.Z. Kabraji was the brigade commander. He called his Signals officer and Sam asked him how long it would take to lay the line.
    "Two months," replied the officer, "provided I have the stores."
    "Where can we get the stores?" asked Sam.
    "The P&T has a big dump at Silchar," replied the officer.
    "Then go and get it," said Sam. "But don't get caught."
    Sam had said this as a joke, but the Signals Officer, who was young, immature and impetuous, took it seriously. He took a fleet of lorries to Silchar and went straight to the P&T Department stores. When the official in charge protested, he brought him along with the stores and released him only after a week. The P&T Department raised a hue and cry and reported the 'theft' and kidnapping of their officer to the Ministry. Soon the matter reached Army HQ. The COAS ordered disciplinary action to be taken against the officer, as well as the brigade commander. By now the line was almost complete and the Army Commander was informed of the case. Though Sam had forgotten about the incident, he immediately wrote to the Chief assuming full responsibility for the officer's actions, saying that he had acted on his specific orders.

    Maj Gen VK Singh (Retd)

    Maj Gen RZ Kabraji, AVSM

    Maj Gen RZ Kabraji was a very distinguished Signal Officer. He was highly intelligent and made his mark within and out side the Corps. I saw him as GSO1 19 Inf Div in 1955. Those days this was a key appointment, as 19 Infantry Division looked after the Kashmir Valley, where most of the action was.

    Maj Gen Kabraji had great sense of humor and brought happiness all around. He also showed great courage of conviction and would not be cowed down.

    In his passing away the Corps has lost a very great Signaller and General Officer. May the departed soul rest in peace.

    Lt Gen Harbhajan Singh
    Former Signal Officer-in-Chief

    Saturday, February 23, 2008

    Maj Gen RZ Kabraji, AVSM

    Dear Members,

    I am very sad to inform you that one of the most loveable Signals Veteran, IC 796, Maj Gen RZ Kabraji, AVSM, left for his heavenly abode on 21 Feb 08. He was residing at Aundh, Pune. He was 91. The last rites were performed today morning, 22 Feb 08. We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to the dear ones to bear this irreparable loss.
    His wife, Mrs Nargesh Kabraji, had expired about four years ago.
    The information was received from Lt Gen YS Panwar, VSM.

    In sorrow-
    Chander Kamboj
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We were very sorry to learn of the sad demise of Maj Gen RZ Kabraji. We had called on him in Jan 2004 during a brief visit to Pune at his house in Aundh and cannot forget the joy on his face and voice when he received me saying "Sodhi you have created history! You are the first SO in C who has come to my house after retirement!" We had a pleasant evening over a drink with him. He had the reputation of being a very fine commander and excellent in staff work too.

    MS Sodhi
    Lt Gen (Retd)
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    On behalf of the "Airawat Signals" family, we offer our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. Gen Kabraji has been one of the illustrious predecessors of mine. During the reunion last year when we had contacted him, his son had mentioned that he was very pleased at our having reached out to him.
    May God bless his soul.

    Col Suyash Sharma
    Airawat Signals
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Late General Kabragi was an avid, Ham Amateur Radio enthusiast. He was the Commandant School of Signals when I was attending a course there. When we called on him one evening he quietly left us in the capable hands of Mrs Kabraji and left for his den, possibly he had a schedule to attend . Remembered Sadly.

    Lakshman Singh, VSM
    Brig (Retd)
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I wish to convey the sad news of the demise of one of our most
    illustrious veterans, Maj Gen (Retd) RZ Kabraji, AVSM at a ripe age of
    almost 91 yrs. He was not keeping too well for a couple of days and
    breathed his last on 21 Feb evening. The late Gen Kabraji was
    Commandant of MCTE (then the School of Signals) from May 60 to Apr 63.
    He commanded I Armd Div Sig Regt. Mrs Kabraji predeceased her husband
    4 yrs back.

    The last rites were completed early morning on 22 Feb 2008.

    YS Panwar
    Lt Gen
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    My own connection goes back to 1947, when I was OC Miektila Coy of the Post-war 2nd & 3rd Courses Cadets at the IMA Dehra Dun. I visited the then School of Signals (MCTE) where Russi was Staff Officer to the then (British) Commandant, to ascertain the numbers I should select for the Corps. Russi Kabraji was a well-liked highly Intelligent & a jovial person.
    In early Fifties He & I were again together( J&K) in 19 INF DIV, then responsible for the entire Kashmir Valley, with URI on the Left & Tosh-Madan beyond LEH on the Right, together with KARGIL DRAS etc- he was the Divisional GSO-1 & me the C SIGS. We were together also in Late Fifties at MHOW He was the Commandant School of Signals & I his Deputy.

    He was a very keen HAM Radio enthusiast -VU2BK- and an excellent Morse Code operator - and thus was well known the world over at least in the HAM RADIO Firmament. While in MHOW we together built India's First Rotatable Three Band Cubicle QUAD Antenna. It was great Fun (My call -VU2PS).

    BRIG PS GILL (Retd)
    A WORLD WAR II VETERAN OF SIGNALS
    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Friday, February 15, 2008

    Brig RN Lambah

    Dear Members,

    I am sad to inform you about the demise of IC-7840 Brig RN Lambah, of Signals, some time on 14 Feb 08, in RR Hospital, New Delhi.The cremation will take place at 11.00 AM, on 15 Feb 08, at Lodhi Road Electric Crematorium, New Delhi.
    The Chautha will be held, on Saturday, 16 Feb 08, from 1500 to 1600 hrs, in Club premises of Sector 15, Noida.
    We pray to Almighty to give peace to the departed soul and strength to all dear ones and near ones to bear this irreparable loss.

    In sorrow-
    Chander Kamboj, VSM
    Brig (Retd)

    Monday, January 7, 2008

    Brig TS Chowdhary

    I am shocked to learn about the sudden and untimely passing away of our dear and respected colleague, Brig TS Chowdhary. In fact I met his son very recently and he was telling me, "Dad was doing fine"!!

    TS was a very lively person, full of humor. Accordingly, he was very popular with his peers and troops. Brig Chowdhary was also a good professional officer, highly intelligent and dedicated.

    His passing away is a great loss to the Corps, his Family and friends. Our deepest sympathies with the Family members.

    Lt Gen Harbhajan Singh, PVSM (Retd)
    Former Signal Officer-in-Chief

    Sunday, January 6, 2008

    Brig MM Trivedi

    During my tenure as CO Central Comd Sig Regt, Brig MM Trivedi (then Capt) joined the unit after completing the SODE course with distinction. His outstanding performance on the degree course speaks for itself and leaves little for me to say about his intelligence and professional knowledge. He was a man of few words but could act decisively and delivered results. He let it be known that high IQ people can conduct themselves without arrogance and can be extremely pleasant to work with. I remember him for his uncanny ability of handling matters connected with civilian staff in the signal centre. The Corps has lost a great communicator.

    Sharad Paranjape
    Col(Retd)

    Lt Col Sylvester D'Souza Marg

    Wife of Lt Col Sylvester, Marina from Goa writes:

    Sylvester's colleagues through Report My Signal Blog and via e-mail have been very supportive. I was touched that they shared their fond memories of him with me.You will be glad to know that the road in front of our house will be named after Sylvester--"Lt. Col. Sylvester D'Souza Marg". Inauguration of this naming will be on 26th Jan 2008.
    Wishing you all the best in the New Year.
    Best regards,
    Marina
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Col Paranjape writes:

    I have just learnt from Mrs. Marina D'Souza that the street on which Sylvester lived is being named "Lt Col Sylvester D'Souza Marg" on 26th Jan 2008. All signallers would be proud to know that his community has decided to perpetuate the memory of a Signals Officer in such a dignified manner.
    Sharad Paranjape
    Col(Retd)