PATRIOTISM IN ACTION catalogues Goa's significant contribution to the commissioned officer ranks in the three wings of India's defence services. A contribution perhaps the highest -- per capita or proportionate to population -- among the regions of India , even though a complete listing is still an unfinished task.
Without any regional lobby or state support, the 'Goan Officer' -- on his own devices of sound intellect, strong moral character and a sense of fair play -- built himself into an envied institution in the Indian military establishment. Subordinate officers from other regions of India, when transferred to a unit commanded by a Goan, would joyously exclaim, "Hey, I'm lucky, I've been posted to a unit with a Goan commanding officer!"
That 'Goan Officer' needs to be recognised and honoured. And the erstwhile Goan pride in the soldier's uniform needs to be rekindled. This book hopes to be a first step in that direction.