Shaukat Dar
LONDON: Several decorated British military officers have appreciated the versatility and professionalism of the Pakistan Army, terming it one of the best and most disciplined military organizations in the world.
Around sixty senior British military officers who studied and served in Pakistan Army’s elite Command and Staff in the last fifty years shared their views at a luncheon in their honor arranged by the Pakistan High Commission in London.
The group Quetta Association veterans is comprised Pakistani Army as well as British veterans who are graduates of the College at Quetta.
The event was organized to admire the indelible imprints of their stay in Quetta. The British officers paid unbounded homage, rich tributes, and reverence to their alma mater. Notable British military officers who attended the ceremony included Lieutenant General Sir Alistar Irwin, Lieutenant General Anthony Palmer, Brigadier Nick Thompson, Colonel Chris Copeland, Colonel Gavin Peebles and Major General Seumas Kerr. The officers were accompanied by their wives.
The event was conducted by the Army and Air Adviser at Pakistan High Commission London, Colonel Taimur Rahat.
He spoke in detail on the achievements of the Staff College and informed the audience of the worth and value that Staff College beholds for the training of military officers from 1905 onwards. He paid glowing tributes to the college faculty led by some of the ablest Commandants over the years.
Colonel Rahat shared some insightful historical information with the audience, which reignited their affinity and vigor for the College.
Pakistan Armed Forces’ Professionalism
Highlighting the professionalism of the Pakistan armed forces, the British officers said there was no comparison to the Pakistan military’s professional expertise. They said the Pakistan military was battle-hardened and known for its ability to defend the homeland as well as providing great help to the partner nations.
They recognized the honesty, probity, and integrity of the Pakistan military officers and recalled their generosity. High Commissioner Moazzam Ahmad Khan addressed the event, expressing his views on the importance of Pak-UK ties and the role of defense diplomacy in strengthening these relations.
He thanked British officers and the Quetta Association veterans for their service and contributions to Pakistan-UK ties.
Major General John Suemas Kerr, the Chairman of the Quetta Association, also expressed his gratitude for the Pakistan High Commission for its traditional hospitality.
