Chapter 22: chapter 22

Let me share some more incidents from my journey, ones that have shaped me into the officer I am today, marking the completion of my twelve years in the force. These incidents involve Vayu, who tested my patience and leadership abilities repeatedly, making me stronger than ever.Perhaps the most defining moment in my interactions with Vayu came during a heated confrontation. It was a clash of egos, and neither of us was willing to back down.The incident began when Vayu openly questioned my decision during a critical mission briefing. He challenged my authority and competence in front of the entire unit, undermining my leadership in a blatant display of insubordination.I knew that I couldn't let this blatant act of disrespect go unaddressed. In a composed but assertive manner, I reminded Vayu of the chain of command and the need for unity and discipline within our unit. I made it clear that his actions were not only insubordinate but also detrimental to the cohesion of our team.Vayu, however, refused to back down. He continued to argue and challenge my authority, escalating the confrontation. It was a tense and uncomfortable moment for everyone present.In the end, our commanding officer, Col. Sharma, intervened. He had witnessed the entire incident and recognized the severity of the situation. He ordered Vayu to apologize for his insubordination and warned him about the consequences of such behaviour.Fortunately, a senior officer had also seen the incident in the mess and dared to report it to Col. Sharma. This additional account corroborated my version of events, and it became clear that Vayu's actions were unacceptable.Another incident took place during a specific training exercise. My team faced several obstacles and setbacks, making it a gruelling test of endurance. I knew that I had to lead by example. I remained calm under pressure, made strategic decisions, and ensured that my team worked together cohesively.On the other hand, Vayu's leadership style was marked by impatience and authoritarianism. His team members felt pressured and demotivated, leading to confusion and chaos. It became clear that he was prioritizing his success over the well-being of his team.In the end, my team completed the exercise, earning praise for our teamwork and adaptability. Vayu's team, on the other hand, struggled and failed to meet their objectives.This incident highlighted the importance of effective leadership in the military. It was not just about giving orders; it was about inspiring and guiding your team to overcome challenges together.A few days after this incident, our commanding officer, Col. Sharma, called me and apologized for not believing my earlier report about Major Vayu. It was a moment of validation and closure, knowing that the truth had prevailed.In the aftermath of these incidents, I couldn't help but reflect on the lessons I had learned from my encounters with Vayu. He had been a difficult adversary, one who had tested my patience and leadership abilities again after Leh. But through it all, I had emerged stronger and more resolute in my commitment to my duties.As time passed, I continued to lead the unit with a focus on professionalism and teamwork. Slowly but surely, the competitive atmosphere created by Vayu began to dissipate.It was during this period that I received news that would change the course of my career. I was informed that I had been recommended for promotion to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. It was a momentous achievement, one that filled me with a sense of pride and responsibility.The promotion process was rigorous, requiring me to undergo a series of assessments and interviews. The officers grilled me about my past as well, including Leh and a previous tenure in Hyderabad. I was determined to prove that I was ready for the challenges that lay ahead. I focused on my leadership skills, my ability to make tough decisions under pressure, though some had gone wrong I never quit, and most importantly, my commitment to the well-being of my unit and the soldiers reporting to me.After months of anticipation, the day of the promotion board arrived. I stood before a panel of high-ranking officers, where I met a familiar name.Colonel Prakash, Kaushal's would-be father-in-law, was also on the panel. We hadn't met earlier, but I knew him from my initial days, as his name was mentioned frequently in meetings. The panel asked me numerous questions, each designed to scrutinize my record and qualifications. I felt a mixture of nervousness and determination, knowing that this was a pivotal moment in my career.The questions were probing, and the review was intense. But I answered each query with confidence, drawing on my experiences and lessons learned along the way. I spoke about the challenges I had faced in Leh and Jaisalmer, the rivalries, terrorist missions, and insubordination I had encountered, and how I navigated those obstacles with professionalism and resilience.When the panel deliberated and announced their decision that they were satisfied with my answers, I was overwhelmed with a sense of accomplishment. Though it took another six months after that interview, I finally got promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, a milestone that validated the years of hard work and dedication I had invested in my military career.While pinning the new rank on my uniform today, I cannot help but think about the journey that has brought me to this point. From the cold of Leh to the scorching sands of Jaisalmer, I had faced adversity and emerged stronger each time. My experiences have shaped me into the leader I have become, one who is committed to upholding the values and principles of the military.But my journey is far from over. With the new rank came new responsibilities, and I knew that I would continue to face challenges and obstacles along the way.As I look out at the vast desert that stretches before me, I feel a sense of awe and gratitude. The sands of Jaisalmer have witnessed the battles I had fought, both within and outside the military. They have seen me rise through the ranks, and they whispered secrets of resilience and determination.I know that the desert holds its challenges and mysteries, but I am ready to face them.My journey as Lt. Col. Riya Singh has just started. As I gaze into the endless expanse of sand, I feel a profound sense of purpose—a purpose that will continue to guide me through the shifting sands of life in the military. However one thing I still miss is someone close I can share this happiness with.~~~~~