A ‘Unity Run’ for localities of Lawsohtun and Lumshatsngi-Kenchs’ Trace was conducted by the 119 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Assam here today to foster stronger ties and mutual respect with the community.
Children as young as four years old to seasoned veterans aged 75, embracing the spirit of togetherness took part in the event with distances ranging from a friendly 2.5 km, 5 km for leisure walkers to more challenging 10 km for avid runners.
Families, friends, and neighbours cheered on the sidelines as children run alongside army personnel.
Major CP Marak, IFS (Retd), Ex Principal CCF & HoFF (Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force) said, “It’s heart warming to see the community come out and participate with such strong spirits, as we say in the IFS, a strong mind resides in a healthy body. We must focus on physical and mental fitness and say no to drugs and ill habits.”
Colonel SK Tripathi, Commanding Officer 119 Inf Bn (TA) Assam said, “It is essential for our young ones to see the army as approachable, as friends. Today, they’ve not only seen it, but they’ve also run alongside them.”
Apart from the races, there were also booths set up to provide refreshments, share stories, and engage in friendly banter.
Participants were given medals and certificates.