Islamabad:Defence and Martyrs Day is being observed today (Sunday) to pay tributes to the martyrs and Ghazis and reaffirm commitment to defend the motherland against all threats.
It was on this day in 1965 that the Indian forces crossed international border in the darkness of night to attack Pakistan but the nation foiled nefarious designs of the enemy. Special prayers were offered after Fajr in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the country and independence of occupied Kashmir from the cruel clutches of India.
Fateha and Quran Khawani are also being held for the martyrs. The day dawned with 31-gun salute at the Federal Capital and 21-gun salute at provincial capitals. Meanwhile, a ceremony in connection with the Defence and Martyrs Day was held here at Naval Headquarters today (Sunday) morning.
Naval Chief Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi laid floral wreath at the memorial of martyrs and offered Fateha. He also met the family members of Shuhada. According to reports, in Karachi, a change of guard ceremony was held at the mausoleum of father of the nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in connection with the Defence and Martyrs Day today (Sunday).
A smartly turned out contingent comprising 46 cadets including three women, of Pakistan Air Force Asghar Khan Academy assumed the guard duties. Air-Vice Marshal Shakeel Ghazanfar laid the floral wreath on Mazar and offered Fateha. He also recorded his impressions on visitors’ book.
Addressing the ceremony Air Vice Marshal Shakeel Ghazanfar paid rich tribute to the martyrs and Ghazis and said armed forces are ready for the safety and security of the mother land. In Rawalpindi, the main ceremony in connection with the Defence and Martyrs Day was held at GHQ today (Sunday) morning. On the occasion, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa laid floral wreath at the memorial of martyrs and offered Fateha.