In September 2022, the Gurkha Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) Support Battalion said farewell to the outgoing Commanding Officer (CO), Lieutenant Colonel Ian Sands on completion of his successful thirty months tenure as the CO, Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion.
The farewell program started with the temple service, led by Pandit ji, who prayed for the battalion to wish for the wellbeing and better future of the outgoing Commanding Officer. This was followed with the whole battalion formed up in the transport troop hanger for the final address of the outgoing CO. He thanked everyone for their support and outputs during his time and wished the battalion well for better future.
This was followed by the traditional tow out led by the battalion’s Gurkha Major, Major Baldeep Tamang. The battalion lined either side of the road starting form battalion headquarters and stretching out to the main exit gate of the camp. The CO was pulled out of camp on top of a decorated land rover by the Warrant Officers and Officers and then he was received by an Honour Guard just before the camp gates. The Honour Guard of eight soldiers led by Corporal Yogen was inspected by the CO and after receiving the honour guard he gave his final thank you for the traditional farewell.
Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion would like to thank Lieutenant Colonel Ian Sands for his outstanding service and leadership to the battalion and wish him and his family good health and all the best for his future.
By Corporal Bikash Rai, Gurkha Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Support Battalion
