QUETTA: The 52nd Defence and Martyrs Day of Pakistan was celebrated with traditional zeal and fervour in military installations throughout Balochistan to commemorate Pakistan’s historic victory in the 1965 war with India.
The day dawned with the recitation from the Holy Quran and special prayers for the prosperity of Pakistan in all unit mosques. An impressive Askari Mela was also held at Askari Park of Quetta.
Balochistan Assembly Speaker Raheela Hameed Durrani was the chief guest on the occasion.
Security, traffic plans finalised for ‘Defence Day’
A smartly turned out contingent of the Pakistan Army displayed their professional skills by firing artillery guns while Cobra helicopter gunships, Mashaq aircraft and Bel 412 helicopters of Army Aviation displayed various maneuvers.
Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) ace fighter jet JF-17 Thunder carried out fly-past and also performed various formations and acrobats. Brass Band played various tunes of melodious national songs whereas a scintillating display of gymnastic attracted audience’s attention.
Different units and formations also established their stalls to portray army’s role in defending the motherland and nation building. Students of various schools also performed different tableaus. A reception in honour of the families of martyrs was also arranged at the Quetta Club.
Later, a Martyrs Day Ceremony was held at Musa Stadium in Quetta Cantonment. Acting Commander Southern Command Maj Gen Nadeem Zaki laid a floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada and offered Fateha for the fallen heroes of the nation.
Defence Day: Nation pays homage to martyrs
Speaking on the occasion, Maj Gen Zaki paid homage to the martyrs, who laid down their lives for the defence of Pakistan and said sacrifices of martyrs will never be forgotten.
“Each and every soldier of Pakistan Army will live up to the rich tradition of their predecessors and will not leave any stone unturned to make the defence of the country impregnable,” he said.
National songs were performed by renowned singers at the ceremony, also featuring biographies of martyrs.
The ceremony was attended by a large number of families of the martyrs, civil and military officials and people from all walks of life.
