Indian Army 61 Cavalry’s horse Rio received Chief of Army Staff commendation on Sunday for his stellar service as he completed his 18th Republic Day parade.
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At an event at Carriapa parade ground in Delhi on Sunday, Indian Army Chief Gen MM Naravane rewarded him and recognised his contribution in the service.
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He offered him carrots and jaggery along with commendation card, an official said.With this, Rio became the first horse from the Indian Army's 61 Cavalry- the only functional horse regiment in the world to get the award.
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Rio has been the contingent commander's charger for the last 16 years. He started participating in the parade at the age of 4.“He is a special horse. He hears the human voice, when the commander gives the command he reacts accordingly,” Contingent Commander Capt Deepanshu Sheoran told Asianet Newsable before 72nd Republic Day parade.
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Usually, the horses get retired at 20 years of age but Rio is 22 and still serving.
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“I feel so confident while marching on him because of his experience. He is never unnerved or disturbed because of the cameras or flashes,” Captain Sheoran said.
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