Chennai: The Defence Forces in Chennai celebrated the 79th Independence Day on Friday with a solemn ceremony at the Victory War Memorial.

The event saw senior officers from the three services and the Coast Guard paying tributes to the martyrs. Lieutenant General V Sreehari, AVSM, SC, SM, General Officer Commanding, Dakshin Bharat Area, led the proceedings, joined by Rear Admiral Satish Shenai, NM, Flag Officer Commanding, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area, and Air Commodore Tapan Sharma, Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Tambaram.

A representative of the Inspector General of the Indian Coast Guard and several veterans also laid wreaths at the memorial.

For the first time, students from schools and colleges, along with NCC cadets, participated in the celebrations. Addressing them, Lt Gen Sreehari highlighted the sacrifices of soldiers and urged the youth to actively contribute to nation-building. “Children, as future leaders, must steer the country towards peace, progress and innovation,” he said.

He also paid homage to the valour of war heroes who safeguarded the nation and enabled its growth. Over 50 students from institutions including Devi Academy, La Chatelaine School, Army Public School, Muthialpet Higher Secondary School, Presidency College, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Dr MGR University attended the ceremony.

The programme concluded with patriotic fervour as the Defence Forces reiterated their commitment to the security and sovereignty of the nation.