The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee Presented the prestigious Presidential Standards to two of the IAFs Squadrons 25 Squadron and 33 Squadron, in an impressive ceremonial parade held at Air Force
Station Sulur, here Today. Located in South Western Sector, 25 Squadron Called “THE HIMALAYAN EAGLES”, was formed on 01 Mar 1963 at Chandigarh. With a motto SATVADHINA HI SIDDHAYA i.e EXCELLENCE THROUGH DELIGENCE it has been the lifeline of troops stationed in the Northern region for over five decades, in peace as well as in war. During the 1965 and 1971 Indo Pak conflicts and Kargil operations the squadron played a vital role. 33 Squadron was formed on 09 Jan 1963 with two Caribou aircraft with motto SHRAMO DADATI SIDDIM meaning THROUGH HARD WORK COMES GLORY’ The squadron participated in operations in both 1965 and 1971 Indo Pak conflict. It also has the distinction of spearheading the largest ever formation in the history of the IAF during the Tangail operations in 1971. In 1986 the squadron was reequipped with AN-32, which has over the years proven to be the work horse of the IAF. The squadron flew extensively during the IAF’s Tsunami rescue and relief operations. Based at Sulur, the squadron maintains an effective air bridge to the far flung island territories of Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep. The standards are awarded to Operational Units while colours are awarded to non flying formations. IAF Operational Squadrons become eligible for award of Presidential Standards after completion of 18 years. Source: Chindits
