Bangalore: Sixty-two senior officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), jawans and war widows were on January 15 presented with different awards at the Investiture ceremony of the Indian Army's Southern Command in Bangalore.

The indomitable spirit and courage of the officers, JCOs and jawans exhibiting gallantry of highest order with utter disregard for their own personal safety were recalled on the occasion.

Their gallant acts of valour, presence of mind and undaunting courage in Army's operations in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and rescue efforts at the time of natural calamities were deeply appreciated.

The awards that were given away were 'Yudh Seva' medal, 'Bar to Sena' medal, 'Sena' medal (gallantry), 'Sena' medal (distinguished), 'Bar to Vishist Seva' medal, 'Vishisht Seva' medal and 'Jeevan Raksha Padak'.

They were presented by the general officer commanding-in-chief lieutenant, headquarters Southern Command general G S Sihota.

Touching scenes were witnessed as some of the awards were accepted posthumously.

Brigadier Soli Noshir Pavri (Kumaon) bagged the 'Yudh Seva' medal and captain Johny Joseph (8 Maratha Li) the 'Bar to Sena' medal. 'Bar to Vishisht Seva' medal went to major general Sebastin Thomas Manimala (INT). Hav Ram Surat Verma (Artillery) and general Desraj (1988 (I) MED BTY) walked away with 'Jeevan Raksha Padak'.

Seventy-one were scheduled to receive the awards, but nine were absent due to different reasons.

PTI