Rawalpindi (Web Desk): Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), Services Chiefs and Armed Forces of the country paid rich tribute to martyrs, their families and war veterans on the 58th Defence and Martyrs’ Day.
According to the Inter Services Public Relations, (ISPR), in its message, the country's military leadership said that on September 6, 1965, it was yet again displayed that a smaller but righteous force overcame a numerically larger enemy with professionalism, determination and 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 military's media wing said.
"We owe our freedom & peace to the unprecedented sacrifices of our martyrs and veterans, the statement said, adding that 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, Inshallah," the ISPR said.
Pakistan is observing Defence and Martyrs Day today to pay tribute to martyrs, their families and veterans 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 international border to attack Pakistan, but our valiant Armed Forces, backed by entire nation, foiled nefarious designs of the enemy.
The day dawned with 31-gun salute at the federal capital and 21-gun salute at provincial capitals.
Special prayers were offered after Fajr prayer in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the country and independence of Indian illegally Occupied and Kashmir (IIOJK).
On the occasion, Change of guard ceremonies were also held at the mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal in Karachi and Lahore, respectively.
Separately, On the occasion of Defence Day, a solemn wreath-laying ceremony was held at the tomb of Major Raja Aziz Bhutti Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider at Ladian near Kharian on Wednesday morning.
Major General Muhammad Shamraiz was the chief guest in the impressive ceremony. He laid floral wreath on the mazar of the martyred major who wrote a new chapter of gallantry with his blood while defending the motherland, the Radio Pakistan reported.
Rich tribute was also paid to Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed Nishan-e-Haider in a special ceremony held at his tomb near near Jhelum.
Major General Muhammad Shujaa Anwar was the chief guest on the occasion who laid floral wreath on the grave of the Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed.
A special ceremony was also held at the tomb of Captain Sher Khan in Swabi to pay him rich tribute on the ocassion.
Brigadiar Sajid Akbar was the chief guest on the occasion who laid floral wreath on the grave of Shaheed Captain and recited fateha in recognition of the great sacrifice. A smartly turned contingent of the Pakistan Army paid salute to the lion heart soldier of the motherland.
In another ceremony at the mazar of Captain Sher Khan, Inspector General Frontier Corps North Major General Noor Wali Khan laid flowers on the grave.