A day ahead of their induction into the Indian Army as officers, young men and women cadets of Officers Training Academy in St. Thomas Mount demonstrated all-round abilities during the combined skill display.
The programme on Friday began with equestrian display by both OTA cadets and serving Army officers. The Gentleman and Lady cadets gave a demonstration of their martial arts skills. Cadets' parents and their relatives were informed that during the course of their training in OTA, all trainees had to be part of one club and pursue a physical activity of his or her choice, ranging from horse riding, martial arts, para sailing and others.
An elaborate show of skills by a team of canines from Remount Veterinary Corps hogged the limelight. A group of Labrador Retrievers, led by Heera, received huge applause for their discipline, clearing obstacles and sniffing out explosives. Qazi, a Guard Dog took part in a mock drill of attacking and overpowering an ‘intruder.'
The motorcycle display by personnel from the team of Tornadoes of Army Service Corps and Centre, Bangalore, delighted the audience.
On Thursday evening, the cadets received medals and trophies for excelling in academics, firing and physical training. A total of 92 Gentleman and 26 Lady Cadets would be joining different regiments of the Indian Army after the passing out parade on Saturday morning. In addition, nine youth from Afghanistan would also be completing their training.
