Grand celebrations by Air Force Association

Andhra Pradesh Branch of Air Force Association celebrated its 33rd anniversary at the Air Force Station, Begumpet on Sunday. The celebrations included felicitation of five octogenarians AVM MK Rudra, Wing Cdr; M Sadatulla, Sqn Ldr; PM Appukuttan, Hon Flt Lt; D Sadasivam and Hon Flying Officer MV Rao. AFA memento was presented to the octogenarians and attending spouses were presented with a shawl, by Air Chief Marshal LH Latif, former Chief of the Air Staff and Ex-Governor of Maharashtra.

He was accompanied by Padmasri Bilkees Latif. An annual general meeting was conducted on the occasion which was attended by about 500 members including senior officers of the air marshal. The meeting was presided by the President of AP Branch Wing Commander (Wg Cdr) TJ Reddy, VSM. The meeting began with singing of short version of Air Force Song, which is customary on such occasions.

After felicitation of octogenarians, the president in his address, highlighted various activities of the branch and recent initiatives taken up for the welfare of widow members through interactive awareness sessions, ladies counselling sessions and resolving pension matters following improvements announced by the Government in January this year. Wg Cdr TJ Reddy later gave an update on various matters affecting veterans and families in pension benefits, improvements in the welfare schemes from Air Force Benevolent Association and it’s Family Assistance Scheme.

He also reminded members to use recently introduced Voice Guidance Facility, in which messages regarding latest policy changes and information on ensuing functions/activities of the branch are pre-recorded at frequent intervals for access 24x7 from anywhere at any time. This is a unique facility introduced only by this branch.

He has highlighted various important actions which a vereran (ESM) should take up while still in good health and mentally sound. A couple of flexi banners depicting these actions in a nut shell were on display for the benefit of members and spouse members attending the meeting. The members applauded the efforts and initiatives taken by the President. Wg Cdr TV Reddy, a member of the Governing Council proposed a vote of thanks.