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Islamabad: Nationwide events were held on Saturday to commemorate Pakistan’s Defence Day, honoring the sacrifices of the armed forces and martyrs who laid down their lives in the 1965 war.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered at mosques for the security, progress, and prosperity of the country, and for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks.
A key ceremony took place in Karachi at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, where a change of guard was held. A smartly turned-out contingent of cadets from the Pakistan Air Force Academy assumed guard duties, replacing the outgoing contingent. The ceremony reflected national zeal and reverence for the Father of the Nation.
The central ceremony was held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, attended by the Chief of Army Staff, senior military leadership, families of martyrs, and war veterans. Floral wreaths were laid at the martyrs’ monument and a guard of honour was presented to pay tribute to their supreme sacrifices.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He lauded the armed forces and reiterated the government’s determination to further strengthen the country’s defence.
President Asif Ali Zardari, in his statement, praised the courage of the soldiers who thwarted enemy designs during the 1965 war. He stressed the importance of national unity in confronting present-day challenges, including terrorism and regional instability.
Ceremonies were also held across provincial capitals, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Educational and cultural institutions organized debates, exhibitions, and special programs to honour the nation’s heroes.
Public representatives, military officials, and citizens reiterated their resolve to carry forward the legacy of courage and resilience demonstrated on September 6, 1965.
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