Fresh beginning: General Kayani greets future navy officers

Army chief says new inductees are required to develop awareness of threats to national security.

KARACHI:

The 98th Midshipmen Commissioning term and 7th SSC Officers’ class, comprising a total of 118 officers, got commissioned on Saturday at the Pakistan Naval Academy PNS Rahbar. Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani was the chief guest on the occasion.

General Kayani was received by the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Asif Sandila.

Addressing the ceremony, General Kayani extended his felicitations to the graduating midshipmen on their completion of training and commission into the officer cadre of Pakistan Navy.

“This day marks the beginning of a lifelong commitment, to safeguarding the maritime frontiers of your motherland. It is a challenging responsibility, which requires unflinching dedication, selfless devotion and above all, continuous pursuit of excellence in [your] profession,” he said.

He said that as military commanders, “you [midshipmen] would be required to develop your professional acumen, as well as an awareness of the social, economic and informational threats to our national security. This puts added responsibilities on your shoulders, particularly with reference to motivation and training of the men you will command.”

“This will require continuous self-improvement. You must keep yourself abreast, in a fast evolving world, where technology drives doctrines and thinking. Put in time for studies, reflection, and, discussion,” General Kayani said. He also encouraged a “frank exchange of ideas among yourselves and with your men. You will find that an open mind will carry you through seemingly impossible situations.”

“You are joining a proud and prestigious service. Pakistan Navy has a glorious past. You will need [the] highest qualities of intellect and character to come up to the standards set by your predecessors,” he added.

General Kayani said he was confident that the “Naval Academy has equipped you [midshipmen] with the leadership attributes and correct professional attitude that will make your task easier.”

“Your immaculate turnout, smart drill and dignified poise is reflective of the high standards of training at the Pakistan Naval Academy, for which I congratulate the Commandant, faculty and all those involved in your training.”

Later, General Kayani gave away prizes to the officers who had distinguished themselves with their outstanding performance.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 30^th, 2012.