Pakistan Air Force observes Martyrs’ Day, honours fallen personnel
By The South Asia Times
ISLAMABAD - The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) observed Martyrs’ Day on Sept. 7 at its bases across the country, paying tribute to personnel who died in the line of duty and honouring their sacrifices in defence of Pakistan.
The day began with special prayers and Quran recitations for those killed in the 1965 and 1971 wars, the martyrs of what the PAF describes as Marka-e-Haq, and all PAF personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice since Pakistan’s independence.
A ceremony was held at Air Headquarters in Islamabad, where Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, served as chief guest.
The air chief paid tribute to fallen PAF personnel, saying their sacrifices formed the foundation of the force’s legacy of courage, professionalism and commitment to Pakistan’s defence.
“Our Shuhada are enduring symbols of courage, sacrifice and national resolve,” Sidhu said. “Their legacy reminds us that the defence of our motherland is a sacred trust, which we shall continue to uphold with steadfast commitment.”
He said the sacrifices and achievements of previous generations were not merely chapters in history but a continuing legacy that placed responsibility on the present generation.
Following the ceremony, Sidhu laid a floral wreath at the Martyrs’ Monument at Air Headquarters and offered Fateha in remembrance of fallen PAF personnel.
Sept. 7 is commemorated in Pakistan as Air Force Day, marking the role of the PAF during the 1965 India-Pakistan war.
The day is particularly associated with the PAF's operations during the conflict, when Pakistan and India fought a major war over Kashmir and other disputed issues.
Pakistan's armed forces hold annual ceremonies on the occasion to remember military personnel martyred in successive conflicts and operations.
The PAF has also played a central role in Pakistan's counterterrorism operations and other military campaigns over the decades, with personnel martyred in combat and operational duties.
