Impending showers failed to dampen the patriotic fervor at Sankara Nethralaya, where the country’s 62nd Independence Day celebrations were held on August 15, 2009.
Chief Guest Brig. K.C. Behera, Commandant of the Military Hospital, Chennai, recalled the many sacrifices by the nation’s freedom fighters and spoke of the “indomitable living spirit for the country,” which should be followed by one and all.
Paying rich tributes to Col. Madhav Perumal, who was killed in an explosion in Assam in July, Chairman Emeritus Dr. SS Badrinath described Col. Perumal as a “warm, genuine human being who had nationalism in his heart.” Describing the defence forces as the “guardians of our freedom,” Dr. Badrinath said officers like Col. Perumal “inspire us to commit ourselves to serve the nation.”
Earlier on, Brig. Behera hoisted the tricolour at the hospital’s premises before participating at a function in which awards were given to employees and staff of Sankara Nethralaya for their services. Chairman V. Vaidyanathan honoured the chief guest.
The ‘Man of the Year’ award for 2009 was given to Mr. Shivakumar from the Patient Relation Department and the “Woman of the Year’ award was given to Ms. Punitham from the Biochemistry Department.
The Optical Services department was adjudged the ‘Best Team’ for 2009. Outstanding employees of the year and special recognition awards were also given to employees from various departments.
Employees who completed 10 and 20 years of service were also presented with awards on the occasion.