Daily Times

LAHORE: The 52th Defence Day was observed with full traditional zeal and fervour by paying tribute to the martyrs of Pakistan’s armed forces who laid down their lives for the protection of the country during the Indo- Pak War in 1965.

The day dawned with special prayers for the progress and prosperity of the country. A change of guard ceremony was held at Iqbal’s Mausoleum, which was inspected by Lahore Garrison Commander Major General Muhammad Amir. He laid floral wreath on Iqbal’s grave.

Another, flag-hoisting ceremony was held at Town Hall that was attended by Navel Commodore Sajjad Akbar, Lahore Mayor Colonel (r) Mubashir Javaid and others.

Also Punjab Governor Rafique Rajwana, Lahore Corps Commander Lieutenant General Sadiq Ali along with Lahore High Court (LHC) Chief Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah laid floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhadah and participated in a ceremony regarding Defence Day at the Garrison Club.

Like each day, a flag-lowering ceremony was held at Wagah border in which a large number of patriotic citizens participated and raised slogans of “Pakistan Ziandabad, Pakistan Army Zindabad”.

A special ceremony was held at Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Base to celebrate the Defence Day with zeal and fervour.

An aerial and static display was arranged at PAF Base, Lahore. Air Chief Marshal (r) Tanvir Mehmood Ahmed was the chief guest.

An impressive aerial display by PAF fighter jets enthralled the visitors on the occasion. Ultra-light and aero-modelling aircraft display was also a source of enthusiasm for the spectators.

The event was attended by a large number of retired PAF officers and other dignitaries.

Addressing the ceremony, Tanvir Mehmood Ahmed said that that the nation was proud of the achievements of its armed forces, which rendered great sacrifices for safeguarding the motherland in the 1965 war.

Meanwhile, an exhibition was organised at Fortress Stadium by the Lahore Garrison, where weapons were put on display and a colourful demonstration of military actions in war like conditions was held.

Lahore Corps Commander Lieutenant General Sadiq Ali was the chief guest. The participation of veterans of Indo-Pak Wars was the main highlight of the show.

Speaking on the occasion, Lieutenant General Sadiq Ali said, “Bravery, courage and dedication demonstrated by the officers and men of Pak Army bear testimony to our commitment and resolve for the defence and stability of the country.”

He added, “The day reminds us of our pledge and obligations towards our motherland.” He said that Pakistan Army had always remained in the forefront to serve the country with dignity and pride.

“Wars are only won through national solidarity and it is the support, unity and joint resolve of the nation as a whole that we have persevered against all odds.”

He said that the families of martyrs were the most valued asset of the country and the nation should support them in this hour of trial. He urged the officers and soldiers to spare no effort whatsoever to ensure impregnable defence of the motherland.

The ceremony was attended by war veterans, civil and military personnel, dignitaries, martyrs’ families and people from all walks of life.

Published in Daily Times, September 7^th 2017.