Lt Mario Fernandes is a third generation and fifth member in his family to have served the army
THE FAUJI FERNANDES FAMILY: [From L to R] Maj Shawn Fernandes, Lt Mario Fernandes, Capt Sunita Fernandes and Col Robin Fernandes.
PANAJI
When Lt Mario Fernandes was commissioned into the Jat Regiment last month, it was a rare moment not just for Goans in the armed forces, but a rare achievement for one particular family hailing from Margao.
Lt Mario Fernandes is a third generation and fifth member in his family to have served the army.
His paternal grandfather John Fernandes served in the Army Service Corps, while Mario's father Col Robin Fernandes (Sword of Honour and Gold Medallist) was also an Adjutant at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai.
Mario’s mother, Capt Sunita Fernandes, was last posted in the military hospital in Jamnagar-Gujarat and is presently Deputy Director Nursing at Ruby Hall Clinic, Wanowrie, Pune, while Mario’s brother, Maj Shawn Fernandes, is presently serving in Punjab.
Incidentally, Mario has also been posted in Punjab.
At the Passing Out Parade at the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, on March 9, it was pure ecstasy and a moment of pride and jubilation for the entire Fernandes family as they looked on with pride when Mario donned the Olive Greens and joined the galaxy of the privileged few who have dedicated their lives to the service of the nation.
Lt Mario Fernandes was commissioned into the Jat Regiment and although his father and brother are from The Maratha Light Infantry, this provides him with the opportunity to create a new lineage and legacy in another illustrious Regiment and Unit.
The family legacy and the trailblazing path chaperoned by his elder sibling were highly instrumental in lighting the fire in Mario’s belly, as also in igniting his craving and drive to follow his passion in life.
“My father has been my role model and friend, philosopher and guide, while my mother has been my source of inspiration and paragon and stood behind me in my quest for joining the OTA,” said Mario.
“My brother, Shawn, has been my source of motivation, counsellor and positive influence in my groundwork and preparations.”
The rigorous training at the OTA that stretched Mario to his limits were an acid test that only strengthened his steely resolve to excel in all spheres of activity.
Mario's journey to becoming an officer was fraught with challenges, trials and tribulations and endless obstacles that he overcame with aplomb, and eventually emerged triumphant.
“I have had the blessings of my forefathers, the love, affection and unflinching support of my family and the pride and privilege of encapsulating the essence of the motto of my Alma Mater, Officers Training Academy, Chennai, to ‘Serve with Honour’,” said Mario.
Lt Mario Fernandes has embraced a legacy that's larger than life itself. His story is a testament to a family's unwavering commitment to serve the motherland. His story is marked with struggle, hard work, never-say-die attitude, perseverance and dogged determination in order to accomplish desired results in his pursuit of continuing a tradition and seeking a legacy.
