Col OP Kalra

My association with Col O P Kalra (TOMMY) goes back to 1955 when we joined King Georges School, Belgaum together in January of that Year. We went to NDA (26th Course)in 1961 & got commissioned in the Corps of Signals in 1965. We had always been in constant touch with each other both while in service as well as after we retired from the army. Col Kalra was always bubbling with energy and was source of inspiration to all.

I recall, he was always among the first three in the class at school. When Principal Mani and school authorities decided to give him a double promotion- he justified their decision and faith in him by topping the higher class too.

OP was one year older to me in age but many years younger in spirit. No wonder he was made Head Boy of Junior school- the Only Senior Boy in Junior school where young boys could look up to him as Role Model.

OP was always physically fit and could play all games. Who can forget his atheletism in the hockey field?

Col OP Kalra was a brilliant officer- technically and tactically sound. He commanded a Div Sig Regt, the EDP Centre and was a Battalion Commander at IMA- no mean feat for a SIGNALS officer. If he did not rise to higher heights- I can only say it is the army’s and the Corps’ loss which was encashed by IBM and Patni Computers.

Tommy was a gentleman and a true friend with infectious smile. One could count on him always and every time.

His loss will be felt by the entire KALRA Family and Near Dear ones (particularly Mamta Bhabhi; Tanu, Deepak & Saisha; Chirag (Novy) & Sherri). I do hope and pray to Almighty to give them and the family lot of strength to bear this irreparable loss.

“Hey Bhagwan aap Om Prakash Kalra ko apni sharan lena aur usko apne charno main jagah dena”

Lt Col VK Grover (Retd)