ISLAMABAD: Defence and Martyrs Day is being observed to pay tribute to the martyrs of 1965 war with a renewed commitment to defend the motherland against all threats.
It was on this day in 1965 that the Indian forces crossed the international border to attack Pakistan, but the valiant armed forces, backed by the entire nation, foiled the nefarious designs of the enemy.
The day dawned with a 31-gun salute at the federal capital and 21-gun salute at provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered after Fajr prayers in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the country and independence of Indian-illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Services Chiefs and Armed Forces of the country have paid rich tribute to martyrs, their families and war veterans on Defence and Martyrs’ Day.
According to ISPR, the country’s military leadership in its message said that on 6th September 1965, it was yet again displayed that a smaller but righteous force overcame a numerically larger enemy with professionalism, determination and faith.
The military leadership said this day and associated heroics and sacrifices continue to inspire our generations. Pakistan Armed Forces remain committed to ensuring the defence of the motherland against all internal and external threats, the military’s press wing said.
In his message on Defence and Martyrs’ Day, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar has said the 6th September is remembered as the day of vigor, bravery, courage and resilience.
He said this glorious day, where the entire Pakistani nation stood side by side with its Armed Forces, calls upon us to make a pledge to renew the spirit of loyalty and service to Pakistan and pay tribute to valiant sons of the soil who embraced ‘Shahadat’ while ensuring security of the nation.
The prime minister said the defence of the country is not limited to 6 September alone, rather stretches upon an entire lifetime and encompasses all dimensions of physical and ideological frontiers, which needs to be guarded.
He said today, when Pakistan is confronted with multiple security challenges in the shape of extremism, terrorism and external aggression, the entire nation stands united alongside the defence forces to thwart evil designs against the integrity and prosperity of Pakistan.
