The President Parade marking the commissioning of No 83 Bangladesh Air Force Academy course and Direct Entry-2023B of BAF was held in Jashore on Tuesday.
Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Shaikh Abdul Hannan attended the ceremony as the chief guest. He reviewed the smartly turned-out parade and took salute at the impressive march past. He handed over flying badges and different trophies among the graduating officer cadets.
Besides, one BAF officer was awarded navigation badge after his basic navigation training.
Officer cadet M. Shahedul Islam was presented with the coveted ‘‘Sword of Honour’’ for his best all round performance, officer cadet Aman Hossain received “Birsreshto Matiur Rahman Trophy” for his best performance in flying training and officer cadet Himal K. C was presented “Commandants Trophy” for his best performance in general service training in the course.
Officer cadet Nadira Shams Labiba received “Chief of Air Staff Trophy” for her best all round performance in the course among the ground branch officer cadet.
In his address, the Chief of Air Staff began his speech showing his deep respect to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the greatest Bengali of all time. He showed respect to the martyred freedom fighters of all members including martyred Birsreshto Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman and members of Kilo Flight whose sacrifice gave us the freedom of Bangladesh.
He said that to fulfill Bangabandhu's unfinished work following his dreams and vision, the development and modernization of the Air Force is going on to make the Air Force a strong and modern force under the sincere efforts and guidance of his daughter Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina .
According to the ‘Forces Goal-2030’ modern aircraft and equipments are being adding to the BAF. He further said that BAF is able to overhaul the fighter aircrafts by using its own manpower, technology and technical skills.
He mentioned that cadets from different friendly countries are undergoing training at this academy due to the state-of-the-art-training system of BAF Academy, which is exemplary. Finally, he wished the newly commissioned officers success and thanked all the members of Bangladesh Air Force Academy.
A total of 93 officer cadets including 18 female and one Nepali and one Zambian officer cadet were commissioned this time.
Senior Under Officer of the Cadet Academy Mahmmod Al Yeamin commanded the parade. The parade was followed by a spectacular fly past of different aircrafts of BAF Academy. Afterwards, a spectacular para jumping was held by the skilled paratroopers of BAF for the first time in BAF Academy.
Among others, member of the parliament, high civil and military officials, diplomats of Foreign Missions in Bangladesh, local dignitaries and guardians of the officer cadets were present on the occasion.