Celebrating our brave men and women in uniform is something that comes naturally to us. Even though one day is not enough to praise their sacrifices, having a dedicated day to celebrate our Army is a great way to pay them the respect they deserve. On the occasion of 70th Army Day today, the entire nation has come together to pay their tributes and share what they feel about our men and women. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off virtual celebrations and shared a heartfelt message.

On Army Day, I convey greetings to the soldiers, veterans and their families. Every citizen of India has unwavering trust and pride in our Army, which protects the nation and is also at the forefront of humanitarian efforts during times of natural disasters and other accidents.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 15, 2018

Our Army always puts the nation first. I salute all those great individuals who sacrificed their lives while serving the nation. India will never forget our valiant heroes.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 15, 2018

President Ram Nath Kovind also shared a wonderful message.

On Army Day, greetings to the valiant men and women of the Indian Army, to veterans and to families of those who have worn the uniform. You are our nation's pride, the sentinels of our liberty. Citizens sleep securely knowing you are ever awake and ever vigilant #PresidentKovind

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 15, 2018

An annual parade takes place at Cariappa Marg in New Delhi every year to mark the occasion. Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who is always very vocal about his patriotism, had a very important message for the youth of the nation.

Before you paint d town red exactly a month from now on Valentine's Day, how about doing it in Army Olive Green today on #ArmyDay...Let your armed forces, your country be your Valentine @adgpi #IndianArmy #IndianArmyDay

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) January 15, 2018

Many others paid homage to our Army on Twitter as well.

On #ArmyDay, I Salute & remember the fellow comrades who laid their lives defending the freedom of our motherland.
My best wishes to all the friends & their families who are serving the nation in olive greenðºðª
Jai Hindð®ð³ @adgpi pic.twitter.com/DxA9E3u64h

— Maj Surendra Poonia (@MajorPoonia) January 15, 2018

Saluting our brave soldiers and their families. You battle the harshest weather & terrain and go above & beyond to protect our nation's borders. Thank you for your service! #ArmyDay #JaiHind pic.twitter.com/R7S9w3sSjB

— sachin tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 15, 2018

“OUR FLAG DOES NOT FLY BECAUSE THE WIND MOVES IT,IT FLIES WITH THE LAST BREATH OF EACH SOLDIER WHO DIED PROTECTING IT”.I salute our bravehearts of the Indian Army on the eve of #ArmyDay.Their dedication&selfless service towards the country is an inspiration to the world...ð pic.twitter.com/hm7igLJI8v

— Kuldeep Bishnoi (@bishnoikuldeep) January 15, 2018

The day represents the time when Field Marshal KM Cariappa first took charge of the Army as the first Indian Army chief in 1949. He succeeded General Sir Francis Butcher, who was the last British Commander-in-Chief of India.