Tura, Dec 17: Nigel Hopkins’ lineage is steeped in military service. His grandfather served in the Indian Air force, and his father Darryl Hopkins is a proud veteran of the military who retired with the prestigious rank of Colonel of the Indian Army.
Nigel Hopkins P Marak joins his family ranks and the distinction of being the third generation to don the military uniform.
Son of Mrs Liza P Marak and Colonel Darryl Hopkins from Tura, they currently reside in Hyderabad, Nigel completed his schooling from the Army Public School. He was commissioned into the Indian Army on the 14th of December 2024 during the Passing Out Parade of the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun.
He said he draws his inspiration from his father’s legacy and had aspired from a very young age to serve in the army. That dream has finally come true.
An alumnus of the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla, he completed his three-year training before joining the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun in January 2024 for his pre-commissioning training.
Through hard work, dedication, and perseverance, he successfully achieved this significant milestone in his career.
His grandfather having served as an officer in the Indian Air Force, his father an army Colonel (Retired), Nigel’s entry into the country’s elite service continues the proud tradition of military service in his family, a proud moment for Meghalaya and Garo Hills.