DEHRADUN: In a proud moment steeped in tradition and service, a Bengaluru-based family with deep roots in India’s defence services witnessed its youngest member don the Indian Army uniform at the Indian Military Academy on Saturday. The occasion marked a milestone for Indian Air Force Air Commodore Vasant Navad, currently serving at the Integrated Defence Staff in Delhi, as he watched his younger son, Anmol Navad, join the ranks of the Indian Army as a commissioned officer.Adding to the joy, Anmol’s elder brother, Aryan Navad, an officer (naval aviator) in the Indian Navy, stood proudly beside him, celebrating the continuation of a family legacy dedicated to national service in all three wings of India’s armed forces – Army, Navy and Air Force.“These two individuals constantly inspired me to do something meaningful for the nation – something unique and challenging,” said newly commissioned Lieutenant Anmol Navad. “My father is my source of inspiration, and my brother remains a rock-solid guiding pillar. Defence is where I truly belong.”Asked about the unique roles each member of his family will play in safeguarding the nation, Air Commodore Vasant Navad emphasised the critical coordination required among the three armed services to achieve victory, similar to the one during Operation Sindoor.“Modern warfare has evolved into a multi-domain operation – whether it’s space, cyber or psychological warfare, success now hinges on superior information and strategic integration,” he said.All set to join the Infantry Regiment of the Indian Army, Anmol shared his passion for squash and running – the latter, he said, gives him a true adrenaline rush. “Running pushes you beyond your limits, and that’s where the sense of achievement lies. It was one of the reasons I was drawn to the National Defence Academy.”Reflecting on his time at the IMA, he recalled the Bhadraj camp in the Mussoorie hills as one of the most challenging parts of his training. Anmol’s maternal grandfather, a decorated officer in the Territorial Army and recipient of the President’s Medal, also embodied the family’s legacy of service.