Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

End of an era

The passing away of Sam Manekshaw has ended an era in the history of the Indian Army. He left his impression on everyone he met. He never forgot courtesies or left a party without thanking the cooks and bearers. ‘Sam Bahadur,’ as he was affectionately called, was ever concerned about the welfare and well-being of his men. I first met him when I was a Second Lieutenant and, many years later, as Major after the 1971 war. We did not wear our names on our uniforms those days. He could not recall my name but asked: “Aren’t you the Sindhi I met in Sikkim?” Incredible for the Chief of Army Staff to remember a Lieutenant after so many years! After the 1971 war, Manekshaw insisted that the bodies of Pakistani officers be returned in proper coffins and with military citation if they had gone down fighting bravely. He lauded the bravery of even his enemies. Such magnanimity is rare in military history.

Col. Ram Gulrajani (retd.),

Chennai

For all of us in the army, Manekshaw was a role model. His exploits during the Second World War were legendary, repeatedly narrated by our mentors. His address during the convocation in 1988 at the Defence Services Staff College was extraordinary. His practice of values and sense of humour were well known in army circles. The government should institute a chair at the National Defence College in his name.

Lt Col R.V.S. Mani (retd.),

Madurai

When I was serving as a captain in the Army Medical Corps in Barmer, Rajasthan, General Manekshaw visited the sector briefly, a week before the 1971 war with Pakistan. I still remember the occasion: the helicopter carrying him landed within a few yards from a makeshift platform in the desert; he alighted and appeared on the stage; and delivered the briefest, yet stimulating, speech I have ever heard. He said: “Gentlemen, I have come here for two reasons. First, to see you all and, secondly, to tell you that the war is imminent; be prepared; be of good cheer. Best of luck, Jai Hind.” Within a week, on December 3, 1971, the Pakistani forces bombed Indian targets, including Barmer, where our bunkers were located.

Dr. K.A. Abraham,

Chennai

R. Sampath,

Chennai

T.V. Suresh,

Coimbatore

S. Ramakrishnasayee,

Ranipet

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