Golden Jubilee reunion of 87th, 88th pilots and 27th Navigators courses

Hyderabad, April 16 : Fifty years ago, on April 18th, 1964, 120 flight cadets of the Indian Air Force received their commissions in the rank of Pilot Officer. They belonged to the 87th and 88th Pilots & the 27th Navigators Courses. To commemorate the Golden Jubilee of that significant and noteworthy date, a number of them have gathered in Hyderabad to recall and celebrate their many journeys since then in the service of India.

These 120 officers were a necessary part of a historic and unprecedented expansion of the Indian Air Force. Time was at a premium and the need for pilots and navigators was critical. In spite of the limited capacities of the existing flying training establishments, the Air Force embarked on the vital task that, in essence, meant roughly doubling the usual output over the next few years.

The 3-semester aircrew-training programme was reorganized to fit into three trimesters, and clearly, it had to be accomplished without any shortfall in quality. In consequence, the trainees had to work doubly hard to make the stringent grades that air force flying calls for. For the 120, who came through the restructured curriculum, it was indeed a baptism by fire and they came through in flying colours. This baptism stood them in good stead because very soon, many of them were to fly into battle in the two wars that soon followed – 1965 and 1971. A grateful nation recognized their worth by awarding gallantry and service awards to several of these valiant aircrew.

The reunion is now in progress with many events and activities, including the all important Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Memorial at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal near Hyderabad. This solemn occasion is where those present memorialize those who are no more, including those who laid down their lives in action, according to a press release.   INN