Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah on Thursday said Pakistan Navy has a proud history of sacrifices, valour and professionalism.

Pakistan Navy holds its martyrs and war veterans in the highest esteem as they sacrificed their lives for   the better tomorrow of the nation.

He was speaking at the inauguration ceremony of PN Shuhada Monument at Naval Headquarters that was held to mark Pakistan Day.

“Our brave sons of the soil have always responded to the call of the nation with unparalleled courage for a cause greater than life for defence of Motherland,” the naval chief added.

He said, “Raising of the monument is a sincere effort to pay rich homage to our Shuhada and will serve a lasting reminder of their dauntless courage and matchless heroism.”

The chief said, “The stars engraved on this monument depict complete chapter in itself of PN’s illustrious history in all its grandeur. This monument is not merely a structure; rather it will help to instill the heroic spirit of our Shuhada in our future generations by fuelling their passion for sacrifice, nationhood and professionalism.”

A number of senior officers, CPOs/sailors and civilians also attended the ceremony. The naval chief laid a floral wreath at the monument and prayed for the martyrs.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Navy celebrated Pakistan Day with zeal and fervour.

The day dawned with gun salutes and special prayers were offered in all naval mosques for solidarity and integrity of the country. Pakistan Navy Ships and Establishments were illuminated and commanding officers of all units and establishments addressed special gatherings of officers and men highlighting significance of the day.

The major event of the day was Joint Services Pakistan Day Parade, which was held at Shakarparian Islamabad. Smartly clad and agile contingent of Pakistan Navy was part of the parade. Lady officers and female medical technicians of Pakistan Navy, Special Services Group (Navy) and PN band were also part of the tri-services contingents. In addition, Pakistan Navy aircraft P3C Orion and Z9EC helicopters also flew past in this impressive parade.

Captain Shahzad Hamid led P3Cs formation fly past. P3Cs – Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, known as “Flying Destroyers” are fitted with anti-surface missiles, anti-submarine torpedoes, depth charges, bombs and mines. Proudly known as ‘STINGRAY’, Pakistan Navy Z9EC helicopters are equipped with state of art radar & amp; dipping sonar and armed with torpedoes and depth charges; and designed to hunt enemy submarines. Captain Zahid Farooq led the Z9EC formation.

Pakistan Navy Sea Eagle team, led by Lt Cdr Qaisar, Special Services Group (Navy) was also part of the Sky Diving Team. This team exhibited various free fall jumping techniques, which included complicated Maneuvers and landing at targets with precise accuracy.