In a solemn and poignant ceremony, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), launched the book ‘I Am a Soldier’s Wife’, authored by Mrs Geetika Lidder. The book, a heartfelt tribute, chronicles the inspiring life and journey of (Late) Brigadier Lakhbinder Singh Lidder, Sena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, who served as the Defence Assistant to the first Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat.
The book launch event was graced by esteemed former Chiefs of the Army Staff, General Deepak Kapoor and General Manoj Mukund Naravane, along with senior military officers, veterans, and well-wishers who gathered to pay homage to Brigadier Lidder’s enduring legacy.
Addressing the gathering, General Upendra Dwivedi hailed Brigadier Lidder as an epitome of leadership, courage, and dedication. The COAS reflected on his personal association with Brigadier Lidder and commended his distinguished service across various critical assignments, including as an instructor at the National Defence Academy, Adjutant of the Indian Military Academy, Director in the Military Operations Directorate, Commanding Officer in a United Nations Mission, and Defence Attaché to Kazakhstan.
General Dwivedi highlighted Brigadier Lidder’s professional excellence, remarking that he exemplified the four Cs of leadership – Character, Competence, Conduct, and Commitment – making him a beacon of inspiration for generations of officers. He also underscored the three As – Attitude, Adaptability, and Ability – that set Brigadier Lidder apart as a leader who consistently excelled in all his endeavours.
Beyond his professional achievements, Brigadier Lidder was celebrated for his warm personality, ability to connect with people at all levels, and his unwavering dedication to his family. General Dwivedi commended Mrs Geetika Lidder for her remarkable strength and literary dedication in immortalising her husband’s legacy through this book. He acknowledged her contributions to military literature, referencing her editorial roles in military journals like Owl Magazine, HOOT, and the NDA Journal.
Mrs Lidder’s book not only portrays Brigadier Lidder as a valiant soldier but also as a devoted husband, father, and leader who left an indelible mark on the Indian Army. The COAS also recognised Aashna Lidder, daughter of Brigadier Lidder, for her own literary accomplishments, recalling her book published in 2021.
The event also paid tribute to General Bipin Rawat, his wife Mrs Madhulika Rawat, and all those who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter crash that claimed Brigadier Lidder’s life.
Concluding the ceremony, General Dwivedi lauded the publishers for their efforts in bringing this significant narrative to the public and expressed gratitude to all attendees who gathered in large numbers to honour Brigadier Lidder’s memory.
The book ‘I Am a Soldier’s Wife’ serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by military families and the unwavering commitment of India’s soldiers to the nation.
