On Saturday, 15 February 2025, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), led the Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Noida Shaheed Smarak, honoring the brave men and women of the Defence Services who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
The event was attended by Sunita Dwivedi, President of AWWA, along with distinguished veterans, dignitaries, and members of the local community. Noida Shaheed Smarak, which stands as a symbol of reverence and pride, was built to commemorate the sacrifices of the fallen soldiers. Since its inauguration on April 13, 2002, the memorial has showcased historic military artefacts, including vintage air defence guns, naval surface-to-air missiles, and a model of an active warship. It holds the distinction of being the first Tri-Service memorial established by a township to honor war martyrs.
During the ceremony, General Dwivedi addressed the gathering, paying tribute to the fallen heroes and acknowledging the efforts behind the creation and upkeep of the Shaheed Smarak. He expressed deep gratitude to the civil administration and local community for their steadfast support and emphasized the role of veterans as guardians of the nation’s military heritage.
Reaffirming the Army’s commitment to veterans’ welfare, the COAS highlighted the importance of recognizing their contributions and ensuring their voices continue to be heard. He also stressed the need to mentor future generations and align national efforts with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’
General Dwivedi released the “Souvenir-2025,” a publication commemorating the Shaheeds and shedding light on the memorial’s rich history.
After the formal ceremony, the COAS interacted with the Next of Kin of the fallen soldiers, expressing heartfelt appreciation for their immense sacrifices. A wreath-laying procession and a two-minute silence solemnly marked the occasion, reinforcing the significance of the tribute.
The Noida Shaheed Smarak remains a key site of national remembrance, hosting events like the Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony, Dedication Day, and Vijay Divas, ensuring the legacy of those who sacrificed their lives for the nation endures.