General Rikhye Assumes Command of UNEF in Gaza

Major-General Indar Jit Rikhye, the 46-year-old Indian general who has been Military Adviser to Secretary-General U Thant since 1 January 1963, assumed command of the United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF) here today. He took over from Major-General Syseno Sarmento of Brazil, who has commanded the Forces for the past year. The change-of-command ceremony took place at UNEF Headquarters, in the presence of the Chief of Staff, contingent commanders, and military and civilian heads of sections at the Headquarters.
Gen. Rikhye arrived in Gaza on 29 January, aboard a special UN caribou. Upon his arrival the new Commander was given a 5 man guard of honour drawn from the seven contingents of the Force. Gen. Rikhye is seen (left centre, background) inspecting the honour guard, accompanied by Gen. Sarmento (to his left), and the Commander of the guard, Indian 3 Punjab Battalion's Major H. S. Dalal (to his right). Also present is Captain Carlos Alberto Barreto Silveira of Brazil (foreground, centre).