ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy on Friday observed Defence and Martyrs Day to commemorate sacrifices of Armed Forces, Shuhada, Ghazis and national heroes who stood against the enemy with unparalleled display of unity and resolve during 1965 War.
According to a Pakistan Navy news release, in his message on the occasion, Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf paid rich tribute to Martyrs and Ghazis who repulsed blatant aggression of enemy and foiled its nefarious designs with support of the nation.
He said the day shows the spirit of unity and sacrifice in the defence of our motherland and glorifies the courageous heroes who were meticulous in their planning, undaunted in their action and instilled fear in the hearts of our enemy. The Admiral said that as we commemorate this occasion to honour the sacrifices of our brave sentinels of sea, our Navy stands vigilant and unfaltering in its pledge to defend maritime borders and secure our vital sea routes which are the lifeline of Pakistan’s economy.
The day started with special prayers offered in all naval mosques for preservation of integrity and sovereignty of Pakistan. Quran Khawanis were held for martyrs of the 1965 war. Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ovais Ahmed Bilgrami laid floral wreath at Shuhada’s Monument at Naval Headquarters in Islamabad and offered Fateha while interacting with the families of Shuhada. Wreath laying ceremonies and Fateha Khawani were also held at martyrs’ memorials at Field Command Headquarters.
Flag hoisting ceremonies were also at all naval units and establishments wherein Commanding Officers addressed special gatherings of officers and men and highlighted the significance of the day. All ships were illuminated and decorated in accordance with naval traditions.
