The entire nation along with the armed forces of Pakistan will mark the Defence and Martyrs Day on Thursday (today) with a solemnized pledge to continue defending the geographical and ideological boundaries and territorial integrity of the motherland while highlighting the sacrifices of the martyrs who laid their lives for the sake of the motherland.
In a recent corps commanders’ conference, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa had directed all field formations to reach out to the families of martyrs in their respective areas as mark of respect and acknowledgment of their sacrifices for the nation. The ISPR has also released a video to commemorate the services of those who sacrificed their lives while protecting the motherland.
Special prayers at all mosques will be held, asking for well-being and prosperity of the country. Fateha and Quran Khawani will be held for those who laid their lives in the line of duty while serving the nation. Wreath laying ceremonies will be held at the mausoleums of the recipients of the Nishan-e-Haider.
Main function to highlight the significance of the day will be held at the lawns of the General Headquarters (GHQ), where Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa will address the guests. Prime Minister Imran Khan is also likely to attend the ceremony.
It was on this day in 1965 that the Indian forces crossed international border in the darkness of night to attack Pakistan but ever-vigilant armed forces, solidly backed by the nation, foiled nefarious designs of the enemy.
In a message released on social media by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Wednesday, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa paid rich tribute to the martyrs and their families who have given countless sacrifices for safeguarding the country. “The death of a martyr is the life of the nation. Salute to the martyrs of Pakistan and their families,” the army chief said.
The ISPR has also released a promotional video on Twitter along with the army chief’s message.
Published in Daily Times, September 6th 2018.
