Infantry

Gen Shakti Gurung | Lieutenant General | Indian Army

What is Infantry?

Infantry is a great Career option. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to find information about What Infantry actually is. Most pages on the internet just talk about How to get into Infantry. Just like you would normally not trust a non Doctor with names of medicines, you should also not trust opinions about Infantry from non professionals.

Lieutenant General Gen Shakti Gurung is an experienced professional with 39 years in Infantry. Lieutenant General Gen Shakti Gurung defines Infantry as:

Infantry is the general branch of an army that engages in military combat on foot. As the troops who engage with the enemy in close-ranged combat, infantry units bear the largest brunt of warfare and typically suffer the greatest number of casualties during a military campaign. Historically, as the oldest branch of the combat arms, the infantry are the tip of the spear of a modern army, and continually undergo training that is typically more physically demanding and psychologically stressful than that of any other branch of the combat arms.

How Lieutenant General Gen Shakti Gurung got into Infantry?

After completing my schooling from a Boarding School in Dehradun. I joined National Defence Academy in 1971 and passed out from there in 1974. After NDA, I joined Indian Military Academy and was commissioned into the Indian Army in 1975. I served Indian Army for 40 years and retired in Oct 2014 as a Military secretary.

Lieutenant General Gen Shakti Gurung's Talk on Infantry

The Journey of an Infantry Officer: Insights from Lieutenant General Shakti Gurung Lieutenant General Shakti Gurung, a veteran of the Indian Army, shares his extensive experience and insights into the world of infantry. With over four decades of service, General Gurung has witnessed the intricacies and demands that come with being an infantry officer. This article delves into what infantry entails, the educational paths recommended, essential skills, the positives and challenges of the role, and a typical day in the life of an infantry officer. What Is Infantry? Infantry is often referred to as the “queen of the battle” in military terms. This designation stems from its fundamental role on the battlefield, where operations invariably begin and end with infantry. Whether tasked with capturing a strategic hill or repelling enemy advances, the infantry is at the forefront of warfare, making critical decisions and taking decisive action that can influence the outcome of a battle. Infantry plays a pivotal role, supported by various arms like artillery and engineers, often fulfilling the quintessential soldier's duty through both combat and peacekeeping efforts. Education War Movies For those aspiring to join the infantry, Lieutenant General Gurung recommends immersing oneself in war films that depict the dramatic essence of infantry combat. Notable examples include movies about historical conflicts where infantry units took center stage, such as those exploring the Kargil War. These films provide not only entertainment but also a narrative foundation that helps prospective officers understand the fundamental functions and values of infantry warfare. Reading In addition to films, reading is a vital resource for those interested in infantry. General Gurung advises prospective officers to read extensively about military history and the experiences of gallantry awardees. Books and comics that detail the lives of decorated soldiers unfold real-life stories of bravery, strategy, and sacrifice, enhancing one's understanding of the infantry's significance in military operations throughout history. War Accords Familiarity with military campaigns through war records is essential for infantry aspirants. General Gurung emphasizes the importance of studying the records from notable campaigns, such as the Burma campaign or the conflicts with Pakistan and China. Understanding these historical contexts not only educates but also inspires future officers about the roles played by infantry in shaping the nation’s defense narrative. Coffee Table Books Each infantry regiment produces coffee table books that narrate their unique histories, detailing their formation, significant battles, and notable personalities. These books serve as excellent resources for understanding the evolution of different units and can guide prospective officers in choosing a regiment that resonates with their values and aspirations, ultimately fostering a deeper connection with the infantry. Military History An in-depth study of military history is indispensable for anyone considering a career in the infantry. General Gurung encourages reading about various global military campaigns, from World War II to modern conflicts. This knowledge equips future officers with the analytical skills to understand warfare's complexities and the operating environment, enhancing strategic thinking essential for infantry roles. Skills Team Building Effective team building is a cornerstone skill for an infantry officer. When an officer is commissioned, they are tasked with leading a small unit, typically about 30 men, and must unite them to achieve common objectives. This requires exceptional interpersonal skills to foster camaraderie and trust, critical for success on the battlefield given the life-and-death scenarios that soldiers often encounter. Leadership Leadership in the infantry is characterized by the principle of “follow me,” which highlights the necessity of leading from the front. General Gurung stresses that a platoon commander must inspire their team, using decisive leadership to instill confidence and prompt immediate action during critical moments. Strong leadership is crucial for maintaining morale and ensuring mission success. Quick Decision Making The ability to make swift, informed decisions can save lives during critical operations. Lieutenant General Gurung explains that infantry officers often face unpredictable situations that require immediate responses. An effective officer must possess mental robustness and alertness, enabling them to calculate risks quickly while maintaining composure under pressure. Ability to take risk Calculated risk-taking is vital in infantry operations. This involves assessing situations intelligently and weighing potential outcomes to make informed decisions that may have significant consequences for personnel and mission success. General Gurung notes that a sound judgment in risk-taking can lead to operational advantages while minimizing unnecessary exposure to danger. Physical Fitness Physical fitness is non-negotiable for infantry personnel. Officers must exemplify peak physical health, as they are responsible for setting the standard for their teams. General Gurung underscores that an officer should never lag behind in physical challenges, as being fit not only enhances performance but builds respect among soldiers who look up to their leaders. Mental Alertness Mental alertness is essential for an infantry officer. Being vigilant and predictive enables officers to foresee threats and act preemptively. General Gurung emphasizes that a clear mind, developed through adequate rest and preparation, is necessary for maintaining situational awareness and quick problem-solving. People Skills Interpersonal skills are critical for understanding and managing soldiers effectively. An officer must know their team members' personal circumstances, enabling them to provide the necessary support when issues arise. General Gurung highlights that empathy and effective communication foster a healthy working relationship which is vital for operational effectiveness and team cohesion. Positives Queen of the Battle The infantry's revered status as the “queen of the battle” affords its officers unique recognition and pride. Infantry personnel are often the decisive factor in completing missions, showcasing their pivotal role in overall military success. This element of being on the frontline and leading operations adds an unparalleled sense of duty and honor to the infantry experience. Adventurous & Challenging The infantry's nature offers an adventurous career, filled with challenges. Officers are often deployed to remote and varied environments, from high-altitude regions to inhospitable combat zones. General Gurung describes this adventure as exhilarating, providing opportunities for personal growth and the chance to confront and overcome significant obstacles throughout an officer's career. Extra Allowances Infantry officers receive specific allowances, such as high-altitude and counter-insurgency allowances, due to the unique and demanding nature of their postings. General Gurung notes that these financial benefits serve to recognize the potentially hazardous environments in which infantry conduct operations, providing a tangible appreciation for their dedication. Quicker Promotions Due to the competitive structure within the infantry, officers often encounter more opportunities for promotion than their counterparts in other arms. General Gurung conveys that the rigorous assessments and courses that infantry officers undergo facilitate a clearer pathway for career advancement, enhancing their professional growth within the military. Inter Departmental Learning Infantry officers benefit from learning about various branches of the military through their interactions with artillery, engineers, and other support units. General Gurung believes this exposure enhances an officer's versatility and understanding of joint operations, making them well-rounded leaders who comprehend how all military components collaborate in the field. Challenges Front Line Risk The inherent risks associated with frontline operations mean that infantry officers must be prepared for the possibility of loss, whether that be in combat or as a result of dangerous assignments. General Gurung reflects on this as a sobering but honorable aspect of serving, where the commitment to protect one’s country often comes at a significant personal cost. More front line duties Infantry personnel typically spend more time on the front lines compared to other services, which can lead to extended periods away from home and family. As General Gurung explains, this aspect requires a soldier and their family to be mentally prepared for frequent deployments and the challenges of living under such demanding circumstances. Separation from family life The necessity for infantry officers to undertake lengthy deployments means separation from family is a common challenge. While General Gurung acknowledges that this can be tough emotionally, he also emphasizes the value of sacrifice in service to the nation. The camaraderie built during these challenging times strengthens the bonds within military families, even amidst the hardships. Frequent Transfers Frequent location transfers every few years can disrupt family life and stability for infantry officers. General Gurung notes that this constant movement can create challenges for children, including changing schools often, but it also fosters resilience and adaptability by exposing families to diverse cultures and experiences throughout the country. A Day Of Infantry The typical day of an infantry officer begins early, around 6 AM, with physical training. Following morning exercises, officers engage in delivering comprehensive training to their soldiers, covering weapon tactics and administrative issues until mid-afternoon. The afternoon usually involves administrative duties and team interactions. The officer also participates in evening roll calls, fostering communication and connection between troops. Engaging in physical activities like sports with soldiers post-work hours reinforces teamwork, while the day culminates with evening rituals, ensuring both discipline and camaraderie. Lieutenant General Shakti Gurung’s journey highlights the profound dedication and multifaceted nature of an infantry officer's career. Through understanding the education, skills, positives, and challenges of this field, one gains insight into a profession marked by sacrifice, courage, and a commitment to serve one's nation. The life of an infantry officer, steeped in honor and resilience, is undeniably impactful—not just for the individuals who serve, but for the society that benefits from their dedication and bravery.

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How to get into

Infantry?

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Links for this Talk

Lieutenant General Gen Shakti Gurung's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/shaktigurung

LifePage Career Talk on Infantry

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/infantry

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20170810-0001

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzxSvkicTGI

(Infantry, Gen Shakti Gurung, Indian Army, Indian Army, Bhartiya Sena, Thal Sena, Army Officers, Infantry Weapons, Front Line, Battle Field)

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