ISLAMABAD : The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) observed September 7 as Martyrs’ Day at all PAF bases across the country to honour the supreme sacrifices of its martyrs and pay tribute to their courage, valour and devotion to duty.
The day began with special Du’aa and Quran Khawani for the Shuhada of the 1965 and 1971 wars, the martyrs of Marka-e-Haq, and all PAF personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty since the creation of Pakistan.
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, was the chief guest at the Martyrs’ Day ceremony held at Air Headquarters, Islamabad.
Addressing the ceremony, the Air Chief paid rich tribute to the martyrs of the Pakistan Air Force, saying their sacrifices form the foundation of the PAF’s proud legacy of courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to the defence of the motherland.
He said the valiant deeds of Pakistan’s forefathers were not merely chapters of history but a living legacy that placed a profound responsibility on the present generation.
Paying homage to the martyrs, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu said, “Our Shuhada are enduring symbols of courage, sacrifice and national resolve. Their legacy reminds us that the defence of our motherland is a sacred trust, which we shall continue to uphold with steadfast commitment.”
The Air Chief reiterated that the PAF remains fully committed to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and aerial frontiers while maintaining a high level of operational preparedness to meet emerging challenges.
He highlighted the PAF’s success during Marka-e-Haq as a testament to its professional excellence and combat capability. He also stressed the need for the Force to remain at the forefront of contemporary warfare through advancements in space, cyber and electronic warfare, artificial intelligence, niche technologies and indigenous defence capabilities, in line with Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s vision of being “Second to None.”
Later, the Air Chief laid a floral wreath at the Martyrs’ Monument and offered Fateha in solemn remembrance of the gallant martyrs of the Pakistan Air Force.
The ceremony reaffirmed the PAF’s resolve to honour the sacrifices of its martyrs and uphold their legacy through continued professionalism, operational readiness and an unwavering commitment to the defence of Pakistan.
