Leh, Sept 13: Colonel Sonam Wangchuk, MVC (Retired), delivered a powerful motivational talk to the officer cadets at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Gaya, sharing his invaluable experiences from the Kargil War and offering profound insights on leadership, courage, and resilience.
The session, part of OTA Gaya’s motivational series for cadets, was aimed at grounding the trainees in the realities of military life, blending combat experiences with broader life lessons. Col Wangchuk, a recipient of the Mahavir Chakra, India’s second-highest military decoration, captivated the audience with personal anecdotes from his military career. His stories, filled with examples of courage under fire and ethical decision-making in battle, struck a deep chord with the young cadets.
Addressing the eager audience, Col Wangchuk highlighted the importance of mental resilience and maintaining composure in high-pressure situations. He emphasized that true leadership stems from leading by example, reminding the cadets that a good leader is one who shares the risks with their men, especially in the face of danger.
His talk covered crucial aspects of military life, from tactical decision-making and operational readiness to teamwork and personal sacrifice. Drawing on his experiences in the Kargil War, where his leadership played a critical role in successfully defending strategic posts, Col Wangchuk illustrated how young officers are often the backbone of the nation’s defense, tasked with making life-and-death decisions in the heat of battle.
The cadets were visibly inspired, many deeply moved by the raw recounting of the Kargil War’s challenges and triumphs. Col Wangchuk’s talk not only reinforced their dedication to their training but also reminded them of the immense responsibility they will carry once they are commissioned as officers.
As they prepare to graduate from OTA Gaya, the cadets left the session with renewed vigor and a stronger sense of purpose, determined to uphold the values of courage, duty, and integrity that define the Indian Army. Col Wangchuk’s words, rooted in experience and sacrifice, are expected to echo in their minds as they embark on their military careers, striving to meet the high standards of leadership and professionalism imparted by their academy and its esteemed guest.
