Pakistan is observing Defence and Martyrs Day on Wednesday (today) with solemn ceremonies and tributes to pay homage to the brave soldiers and civilians who have sacrificed their lives for the nation's security and sovereignty.

This annual event is marked on September 6th each year to commemorate the sacrifices made by the armed forces and civilians during the 1965 Indo-Pak War and subsequent conflicts.

The day began with the hoisting of the national flag at half-mast at all government buildings and military installations across the country.

This gesture is a symbolic expression of the nation's grief and gratitude for the fallen heroes.

The day dawned with a 31-gun salute at Islamabad and a 21-gun salute at provincial capitals.

A special prayer was held at Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, attended by top government officials, military leaders, and citizens.

Special prayers were also offered after Fajr prayer in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the country and the independence of Indian illegally Occupied and Kashmir (IIOK).

Change of guard ceremony at Mazar-e-Quaid

At the Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum in Karachi, an investiture ceremony of change of guard took place in honor of Defence and Martyrs' Day.

Air Vice Marshal Gazanfar Latif, the Air Officer Commanding of PAF Academy Asghar Khan, presided as the distinguished guest for this event.

In the morning, a detachment from the Pakistan Air Force Academy Asghar Khan assumed the responsibility of guarding the Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi.

During this significant occasion, a meticulously presented group comprising 57 cadets from the Pakistan Air Force Academy Asghar Khan took on the guard duties.

Air Vice Marshal Gazanfar Latif paid his respects to the Mazar by placing a floral wreath and offering Fateha.

Educational institutions held seminars and discussions to educate the younger generation about the significance of the day and the sacrifices made by their forefathers.

PM lays floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada

The caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar participated in the Defense and Martyrs Day ceremony in Shakarparian, Islamabad, and laid floral wreath at martyrs' memorial.

Addressing the ceremony, Anwar-ul-Haq said martyrs sacrificed their lives for the sake of God by defending their nation and country.

The prime minister said “Our martyrs can never be forgotten and will always remain in our hearts”.

The Prime Minister noted that the Al-Quran holds martyrs in high regard, emphasizing that those individuals who, in their respective eras, gave their lives to protect their nation, country, people, and laws were, in essence, offering their lives in the path of Allah Almighty.

Regarding the crucial juncture of a soldier's martyrdom, the Prime Minister remarked that it might seem like the moment of death, but in reality, it is the moment of "uniting with the eternal".

He expressed that just as martyrs find peace and blessings after death, they would have eagerly yearned to sacrifice their lives repeatedly.

Armed forces pay tribute to martyrs, families

The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), along with the Services Chiefs and the entire Armed Forces, expressed heartfelt respect and honor for the Martyrs, their families, and the war veterans on the occasion of the 58th Defence and Martyrs' Day.

As stated by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the leadership of the country's military conveyed in their message that on September 6th, 1965, history once more demonstrated that a smaller yet morally upright force prevailed against a numerically superior adversary through professionalism, unwavering determination, and unshakable faith.

“Indeed this day and associated heroics and sacrifices continue to inspire our generations. The day exudes the spirit of unity and sacrifice in the defence of our motherland,” the ISPR said.

“We owe our freedom & peace to the unprecedented sacrifices of our martyrs and veterans. Pakistan Armed Forces remain committed to ensuring the defence of the motherland against all internal and external threats. Hostile efforts to spoil the hard-earned peace will be met with the full might of the Armed Forces, backed with the support and resolve of the people of Pakistan, Insha Allah,” it added.

Aleem Khan pays homage to martyrs on 58th Defence Day

With solemn reverence and deep respect, Aleem Khan, Istekam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) President paid his heartfelt homage to the martyrs of Pakistan on the 58th Defence Day.

Lagane Aag Jo Aaye Thay Aashiyane Ko
Wo Sholay Apne Lahoo, Se Bujha Diye Tum Ne

Turning to X, formerly known as Twitter, the politician wrote: “Salutations to the valiant souls who sacrificed all for our homeland's shield! September 6th, 1965, etched in pride, a tale never to yield”.

He further said that, “Against a giant army, they (Pakistani forces) stood, resolute and strong, not just with weapons, but with faith's song, and crushed the enemy”.

He added the Pakistan Army stands as the unwavering sentinel of our homeland's security, ever vigilant against threats both external and internal. These historical exemplars continue to infuse us with the same determination and fortitude that resonated during 1965 war.

“Homage to our heroes on this cherished day,” he concluded.

لگانے آگ جو آئے تھے آشیانے کو
وہ شعلے اپنے لہو سے بجھا دئیے تم نے

وطن عزیزکی حفاظت کی خاطر جانیں قربان کرنے والوں کو سلام!
6ستمبر 1965ء کا دن عسکری اعتبار سے تاریخ عالم میں کبھی نہ بھولنے والا قابلِ فخردن ہے جب پاک افواج نے قوم کے ساتھ مل کر اپنے سے کئی گنا بڑے دشمن کو پامردی…
— Abdul Aleem Khan (@abdul_aleemkhan) September 6, 2023

Sindh Rangers honor the memory of martyrs

The Sindh Rangers Qalandar Wing orchestrated a grand ceremony to pay homage to the memorial martyrs who laid down their lives for the safety and security of Pakistan.

Sub-Inspector Taimur, a valiant defender of Karachi Police, is also being remembered for his heroic sacrifice during an attack on the Karachi Police Head Office.

His uniform and shield were displayed as symbols of his unwavering commitment to duty.

Wing Commander Lieutenant General Safdar Ali Khan emphasized the importance of Defence Day in instilling the values of sacrifice and service to the country in our hearts.

The ceremony also saw heartfelt tributes to the martyrs, including Sub-Inspector Taimur, whose family received gifts from Rangers officers.