The Presidential Parade to mark the commissioning of the 88th BMA long course officer cadets was held at the Bangladesh Military Academy (BMA) at Bhatiari in Chattogram today.

The colorful event was attended by Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmud Khan, Chief of the Air Staff, as the chief guest who reviewed the smartly turned-out parade and took salute.

He also distributed medals and awards among the cadets for their outstanding performances in the academy, said an ISPR press release.

“Through the oath-taking, the newly commissioned officers have been entrusted with the sacred responsibility of protecting the country's independence and sovereignty,” the air chief said.

He expressed his optimism that the Bangladesh Army will become stronger as a modern, professional and disciplined force.

A total of 155 officer cadets, including 151 Bangladeshis (128 male and 23 female) and four foreigners (four from Palestine) of the 88th BMA Long Course received their commissions after three years of rigorous military training.

Battalion Senior Under Officer Samrat Jabir was adjusted the best all round cadet in the 88th BMA long course and was awarded coveted ‘Sword of Honour’ and Company Senior Officer Md Abdul Wadud Masum received the Army Chief gold medal.

Besides, Sergeant Mohammad Isbey of Palestine was awarded the BMA Trophy of Excellence.

The cadets formally took oath and were later adorned with the rank badges by their respective parents and guardians.

At the beginning of the programme, Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Army Training and Doctrine Command, GOC of 24 Infantry Division and Area Commander Chattogram Area and Commandant of BMA received the chief guest on his arrival at the BMA Parade Ground.