I joined Air Force Administrative College (AFAC ) as an orderly to look after cadets in 1963. But then I was told to report to Bhuj soon after. I was the only son and my mother did not allow me to go there. I had to quit. But then, I rejoined in 1967 and after that I served here as a Mess waiter for 40 years.
One needs a lot of patience to do my kind of a job. Especially, as it involves tending to officers so different in character and temperament. We have to be observant, sensitive to what they like and do not like. I have taught many young cadets the right way to conduct themselves in a formal dining-in night on table etiquette. Many of them who have returned to AFAC as officers, even very senior ones, often tell me that they still remember all the lessons I taught them about right comportment in a Mess dining room! Based on my experience and the way I worked I became a Number One in AFAC.
I too have learnt a lot from them. I quit school when I was in class eight. But thanks to the officers I have come into contact with, I learnt to speak English, the right way to carry myself, etc. This job also enabled me to get my daughter married off and my son educated. Even after I retired, I was requested by AFAC to get reemployed and here I still am re-employed and 67 years old. Being a Mess waiter at AFAC is a matter of great pride to me.
