Thu Oct 03 19:10:16 UTC 2024: ## Soldier’s Remains Returned After 56 Years: Military Honors for Thomas Cherian in Thiruvananthapuram

**Thiruvananthapuram, October 3, 2024:** The mortal remains of Thomas Cherian, an Indian Army craftsman who perished in a plane crash in 1968, were received at the Air Force Station in Shangumughom on Thursday with full military honors.

Cherian, a member of the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME), was among the victims of an An-12 aircraft crash over the Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh. His remains, along with those of three other victims, were discovered two days ago.

The solemn ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Tourism Suresh Gopi, Health Minister Veena George, and military officials. Cherian’s brother, Thomas Thomas, also paid his respects.

Cherian’s remains are currently being kept at the Military Hospital in Pangode. They will be taken to his hometown in Elanthoor, Pathanamthitta on Friday for a final farewell with full military honors.

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