If you ever ran into someone from the forces, how would you show your gratitude? These are after all people who put their lives on the line for the security of the nation. Their sacrifice and bravery goes unnoticed most of the time, but that doesn't deter them.

But there are some who take that step to show their appreciation. This account by a former Army officer about his experience at a Delhi hotel will make you into a believer.

“It’s always not about Business”

I was on Temporary duty to attend Republic Day parade in Delhi.

I had to stay for two nights in Delhi. So, I stayed in hotel TAJ. I had specifically chosen the hotel because of its location.

Reuters

In the evening, I called the reception and requested them to get my dress ironed. After a while, the room service boy came to pick my dress. I handed over him my uniform for ironing. He was shocked to see my uniform and politely asked Sir, you are in Army. I replied yes, he immediately took out his mobile, and took selfie with me and said Sir, I am seeing an Army officer for the first time. I have seen them in movies only. He instantly stamped his feet and saluted. He said Jai Hind Sir and left.

After awhile, somebody knocked the door. I opened the door and to my amaze two beautiful girls were standing with their cell phones in hand. One of them said Sir, we request for one selfie. I didn’t knew how to react. I smiled like a fool. I gave them chocolates from the mini bar, as if they were kids. But you know, what nervousness can do to you. It stops the logical flow of thoughts.

Reuters

At around 2100 Hrs, I Got a call from the reception, asking me if, I can come down for the dinner as it can’t be served in room, in an extremely polite manner. I went down to have dinner , then I noticed the real beauty of that place, amazingly awesome interior. Landing from the jungles of Kashmir, the ambience was too shiny for me. The moment I entered the main arena, to my surprise the entire staff was standing there.

The staff approached me with manager leading the contingent. The manager said- Welcome to our hotel Sir, It’s our pleasure to have you in our hotel, handing me the beautiful bouquet. The manager himself had dinner with me.

Next Day.

To my surprise, I was provided with a BMW car by the hotel for my move to “Rashtrapati Bhawan”. Frankly speaking, we are not used to such type of VIP treatment. We fauzis are more comfortable in our Gypsy.

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Day of Check Out.

I went to the reception, handed over the card.

Receptionist: Thank you for your stay Sir. How was your stay?

Me: Stay was very comfortable. My Bill please.

Receptionist: Your stay has been sponsored by our hotel. You protect our Nation. So this is our small token of gratitude for you. We respect your patronage.

It was not about the saving money which made me feel good, but it was about the respect they have shown towards the “Olive Green”.

I was deeply touched by this gratitude, What a great nation we live in.

After that incident, I wrote to the CEO of TAJ group of hotels. Narrating the incident and appreciating the gesture shown by the Manager of TAJ Delhi.

To my surprise, I got a return mail from the CEO stating that TAJ group of hotels have decided to give discount to Army officers for their stay in TAJ hotels across the country.

Quora