Agra: It was a unique get-together that just might have motivated a few schoolchildren to join the armed forces. Four senior military officials joined the assembly at their alma mater here - St. Peter's College - which is celebrating its 165th year.

Lt. Gen. P.C. Bhardwaj, Lt. Gen. A.K.S. Chandele, Lt. Gen. A.K. Singh and Lt. Gen. D.S. Chauhan, all former students, not only joined prayers at the morning assembly but also learnt a few yoga positions from Father John Farreira, the principal.

Before the military officials began their interaction with students, a teacher asked, "How many of you would want to join the armed forces?" Only a dozen feeble hands went up.

But after listening to the inspiring and exciting speeches from the visiting top brass, peppered with reminiscences about their school days, their adventures and their zeal to serve the nation, the number of hands dramatically went up to almost 100 percent.

"So powerful and motivating were their persuasive speeches that the effect was there for all to see," a teacher later said.

The army officials later took a round of the college campus and expressed joy and satisfaction, noting that their alma mater had continued to expand and grow.

"Our children are truly overwhelmed and highly motivated," said teacher Anubhav.

The top army officials had come for a get-together of the Old Boys of St. Peter's College, founded in 1846. IANS