Nation observes Defence Day with devotion and patriotic zeal

RAWALPINDI: Defence Day is being celebrated with national fervor and enthusiasm across the country today to pay tribute to the martyrs and ghazis who sacrificed their lives for the defense of the country of Pakistan.

A statement issued by the Inter Serivices Public Relations (ISPR) said that Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu paid tribute to the brave martyrs and their families on the 60th anniversary of Defence and Martyrs Day on behalf of the armed forces of Pakistan.

The ISPR said that September 6, 1965, is a symbol of the unwavering resolve and invincible courage of the Pakistani nation.

“On that day, Pakistani forces, with the full support of the entire nation, destroyed the numerical and military superiority of the enemy and thwarted his nefarious intentions.”

The ISPR in a statement added that “in a statement that the courage and sacrifices of the martyrs and ghazis left an indelible mark on history that no one can defeat a united nation.

The bravery of our martyrs is a beacon of light for future generations, and their great sacrifices will live forever. Today, the entire nation pays tribute to our martyrs, ghazis, and their families.”

The ISPR further added that the armed forces should not only stand firm against external aggression and terrorism but also stand by the Pakistani people in every natural disaster and trial.

“The Pakistani forces will also provide full support for the rehabilitation and relief of the current flood victims, and the Defense and Martyrs Day will be celebrated with utmost simplicity and humility, the ISPR noted.

The ISPR said that today allows us to renew the pledge that the Pakistani forces are always alert and ready to defend the motherland. Every attempt to sabotage the peace and stability of Pakistan will be met with a befitting reply”.

Gun salute in the Capital

The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital, Islamabad, and 21 in the provincial capitals.

A change of guard ceremony was held at the Quaid-e-Azam shrine in Karachi, with Air Officer Commanding Air Vice Marshal Shahryar Khan as the chief guest. A contingent from Pakistan Air Force Academy, Asghar Khan, assumed the responsibilities of the guards.

Shahryar Khan laid flowers at the shrine of the Father of the Nation, offered Fateha, and while registering his impressions in the guest book, said that the Pakistan Air Force has always given confidence to the people and the enemy has faced defeat.