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Indian Army Day: Saluting The Legacy Of Field Marshal KM Cariappa

On January 15, 1949, Field Marshal KM Cariappa took over from General Sir Francis Butcher to become the Indian Army’s first Commander-in-Chief. The day has been observed as Army Day to recognise this, and to acknowledge the achievements and risks undertaken by Indian army personnel.

On January 15, 1949, Field Marshal KM Cariappa took over from General Sir Francis Butcher to become the Indian Army’s first Commander-in-Chief. The day has been observed as Army Day to recognise this, and to acknowledge the achievements and risks undertaken by Indian army personnel.

KM Cariappa’s legacy goes far beyond being the first Indian to lead the Army or even being one of only two Indian Army officers to hold the Five-star rank of Field Marshal; the other being Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.

Here's all you need to know about Field Marshal KM Cariappa, including the time he refused a favour from Pakistan Army to release his son, then Squadron Leader K.C. Cariappa of the Indian Air Force, captured during the 1965 War.