Islamabad (Soon Times), PAF observed 07 September as Martyrs’ Day at all PAF Bases throughout the country. The day started with special Du’aa and Quran Khawani for the Shuhada of 1965 & 1971 Wars and those who laid down their lives in action since the creation of Pakistan.
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force was the Chief Guest during a Martyrs’ Day Ceremony held at Air Headquarters, Islamabad. During his address, the Air Chief paid tribute to all heroes of the Pakistan Air Force who responded to the nation’s call with unparalleled courage and put their lives ahead of others for a cause greater than life. “PAF is alive to the evolving situation in the region and remains fully prepared to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan said the Air Chief. On this special day, he extended reverence to the generations of Kashmiris who have laid down their lives fighting for freedom. He assured Kashmiri brothers and sisters of resolute commitment and steadfast moral, political and diplomatic support. To pay homage to the martyrs, the Air Chief laid floral wreath at the Martyrs’ Monument and offered “Fateha”. Principal Staff Officers, officers, airmen and PAF civilians attended the ceremony.
Earlier in the day, a wreath-laying ceremony was also held at the grave of Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas Shaheed, (Nishan-i-Haider) at Karachi. Air Vice-Marshal Zaeem Afzal Air Officer Commanding, Southern Air Command, offered ‘Fateha’ and laid floral wreath at the grave of the Shaheed on behalf of Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force. Similar wreath laying ceremonies were also held at the graves of PAF Martyrs all over the country