Chandigarh, Oct 4: Civic engagement and patriotic fervor marked the successful execution of the Sekhon IAF Marathon – 2026 in Chandigarh, drawing a crowd of over 5,000 runners across the tricity region. Held to honor the legacy of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for gallantry during the 1971 India-Pakistan War, the event brought together professional athletes, youth groups, and military personnel. Organized collaboratively by defense authorities and the local administration, the run served as a precursor to upcoming Air Force Day celebrations.
Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command, Air Marshal George Thomas addressed attendees during the event, emphasizing the importance of fitness, national dedication, and institutional synergy between defense forces and civilian communities. Organizers highlighted the historical legacy of Sekhon’s unit, No. 18 Squadron, which defended the Kashmir Valley during the 1971 operations. Officials maintained that the marathon successfully highlighted historical milestones while encouraging active public participation in national health and wellness initiatives.
