ISLAMABAD: On the momentous occasion of Independence Day of Pakistan, Pakistan Air Force Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal SOHAIL AMAN extended his warm greetings to all countrymen and women. In a message, he said, “This day reminds us of the epic struggle for independence that culminated in the creation of a separate homeland for the Muslims of the Sub-continent. On this auspicious occasion, we are deeply indebted to our ancestors whose selfless sacrifices of sweat and blood brought about the freedom, in which we breathe today. While celebrating the epoch-making event, we are proud of safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country against all the odds for three score and ten years. We salute our brave sons of the soil who have laid down their lives for the defence of motherland all along.” “My dear countrymen and women! Remember, the country is still confronting many challenges, internal as well as external, which call for unity among our ranks. Let us recommit ourselves to doing all that we can to preserve our hard-earned independence and ensure that our nation develops. I urge you to contribute wholeheartedly for the progress of the country, by re-invigorating the spirit of resilience, hard work, passion, love for the country and unflinching faith in a brighter tomorrow. I believe that a sense of ownership in our nation can inspire feelings of patriotism and self-sacrifice. We must focus on indigenous skills and knowledge to befittingly respond to the modern-day challenges.” “We, in PAF, are endeavouring consistently for modernisation through indigenization and the world-wide acclaim received by JF-17 Thunder is a compliment to our indigenous defence capability. I assure you that PAF is always ready to foil the nefarious designs of the enemy. May Allah grant us strength to defend our motherland in keeping with the expectations of the nation! I once again wish you all a very happy Independence Day.” Published in Daily Times, August 14th 2017.