Yes, I am the Soldier’s Beret, by Lt Gen Mukesh Sabharwal, Retd
The first time you
connected with me
was when you joined
the Academy
To most people,
I am a virtual stranger
but known to the military,
worn by a Ranger
Not only a matter
of custom or form
crown on the head,
adorn a uniform
Yes, I am the Soldier’s Beret.
In several shapes
and hues I come
single or two piece
as chosen by some
Made from fibres
synthetic and cotton
the erstwhile wool
not to be forgotten
Wear me straight
or style me in tilt
its my character that stays
firmly built
Yes, I am the Soldier’s Beret.
My features vary
from country to nation
by colour, size and
military tradition
What does not change
one bit for the team
is my prestige, significance
and self esteem
For a trooper,
a guard, a scout or a guide
always and forever
wears me with pride
Yes, I am the Soldier’s Beret.
Fun and banter
till the beret he does adorn
but change in demeanour,
the moment it is worn
In automatic mode,
the chest simply swells up
tummy tucked in and
both eyes light up
Appears a spring in the step
of the military boot
smartly and crisply,
hands go up in salute
Yes, I am the Soldier’s Beret.
Is it a mere headgear ?
Nay, it is not
along comes responsibility
on the trot
For the casual admirer,
its glamour and beauty
but for the serious soldier,
its a call for duty
An ingrained sense of
purpose filled to the core
care and countrymen’s
protection comes to the fore
Yes, I am the Soldier’s Beret.
The badge on the beret
pumps the Soldier’s morale
the Regiment, the traditions,
history et al
Spurs him forward
to capture the hill
spilling blood and guts,
all his toil and till
Mission successful,
following orders and plan
for Namak of the Paltan,
Izzat of Motherland
Yes, I am the Soldier’s Beret.
Looked up with admiration
and genuine pride
on parade or battle,
a cynosure of eyes
A fallen comrade with
buddy as his shield
always carried home,
never left in the field
A martyr’s casket,
bedecked with the Tricolour
crowned with the Beret
and medals of valour
Yes, I am the Soldier’s Beret.
For my wearer though,
it is sad but true
where is the respect,
that is rightfully his due
Day and night,
he struggles and he strives
applaud him dear citizens,
while he’s still alive
Be assured that his Karma
he will gladly perform
for the love of his
country and the uniform
Yes, I am the Soldier’s Beret.
Author : Lt Gen Mukesh Sabharwal PVSM, AVSM**, VSM (Retd.) was former 15 Corps Commander, Srinagar , J&K and Adjutant General, Indian Army. The views in the article are solely the author’s.
Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the respective author/ speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of the organisation that they belong to or of that of STRIVE.
Music – Courtesy Ben Sound