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T REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY-THROUGH THE REUNIONS

HE FIRST REUNION

“With Artillery, War is made”.
- Napoleon Bonaparte

rom modest foundations post-partition, the Regiment of Artillery matured into a powerful, complex and
F professional arm. It earned its spurs in the crucible of conflict and proved itself as an arm of decision. The
First Reunion celebrations were held at Artillery Centre, Nasik Road towards the end of February 1951 with
the Colonel Commandant Lieutenant General Maharaj Shri Rajendrasinhji, DSO presiding. Major General D
S Brar, OBE, GOC Bombay Area, Brigadier PP Kumaramangalam, DSO, MBE, Director Artillery, Brigadier
Pritam Singh, Brigadier A W Litchfield, Brigadier K P Candeth, Commandant School of Artillery and almost
all the senior officers of the Regiment were present. Colonel KK Bhandari was the Commandant Artillery
Centre, Nasik Road.

The Commander-in-Chief General KM Cariappa, OBE graced the Reunion with his presence and took
advantage of the opportune event to interact with Senior Gunners, regimental commanders and pensioners
who had come to Devlali. The Reunion was attended by approximately 400 veteran Gunners from all over
India, “some with 40 years of service”. The event provided an excellent opportunity for meeting one another
and regaling incidents and events from the past. The prime motive of the Reunion was most certainly
achieved. A considerable number of officers from other arms had joined the growing regiment, which though
comparatively young, had by its discipline, efficiency and service built up a reputation of being second to none.

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