Republic Day 2022: After More Than 18 Years Of Service, Virat, Elite Horse Of President's Bodyguard, Retires
As India celebrated its 73rd Republic Day, it also brought the curtain down on years-long service of Virat, the President's Bodyguard Commandant's black horse.
As India celebrated its 73rd Republic Day, it also brought the curtain down on years-long service of Virat, the President's Bodyguard Commandant's black horse.
In his illustrious service, Virat was the mount of President's Bodyguard Commandant Colonel Anup Tiwary and took part 13 times in Republic Day parades.
ANI
President Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh bid him farewell on the occasion.
Virat was awarded the Chief of the Army Staff Commendation on the eve of Army Day on January 15. It is the first horse to receive the commendation for exceptional service and abilities.
President¡¯s Bodyguard horse Virat retires from service today. It was given the Chief of the Army Staff Commendation Medal this year.
¡ª ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2022
President Kovind, PM Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh bid him farewell on the occasion
(Pic source: President of India) pic.twitter.com/L7G2OTpJJn
The Hanoverian breed horse began his service in the bodyguard family in 2003. He is also called "Charger" of the President's bodyguard.
As per a report in Live Hindustan quoting an officer, Virat had performed exceptionally well despite his old age during the Republic Day parade and last year's Beating the Retreat ceremony.
Farewell to Virat - the leading steed? in the President's Bodyguard, retiring after 13 years of service to the nation #RepublicDayIndia pic.twitter.com/VWCAUYqqTj
¡ª Wall-E (@Wallll_E) January 26, 2022
The President¡¯s Bodyguard (PBG), raised in 1773, are the most elite regiment in the Indian Army, that carries out ceremonial duties for the President of India. The PBG personnel are excellent horsemen, capable tank men and paratroopers.
Every year on Republic Day, the horsemen - draped in fine red coats, golden sashes and resplendent turbans - escort the president to the stage and give the order for the national anthem to begin.
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