Air Force Day is being observed across Pakistan with enthusiasm today as the nation remembers the courage, professionalism and sacrifices of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) personnel who defended the country’s independence, sovereignty and airspace.
The occasion highlights the PAF’s historic performance during the 1965 war, while tributes are also being paid to martyrs and veterans whose sacrifices remain a source of inspiration for generations.
During the 1965 war, PAF pilots demonstrated what was described as unparalleled determination and air superiority against the enemy.
Squadron Leader MM Alam is being particularly remembered for shooting down five enemy aircraft on September 7. Four of the Indian aircraft were destroyed within just 30 seconds, a feat regarded as a unique record in air warfare.
Tribute paid to Rashid Minhas
A solemn ceremony was also held at the tomb of Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas, Nishan-e-Haider, to honour his ultimate sacrifice for the defence of the homeland.
Air Officer Commanding Southern Air Command Air Vice Marshal Akhtar Imran Sadozai attended the ceremony as the special guest. He visited the martyr’s tomb and offered prayers. A Pakistan Air Force squadron paid tribute to his sacrifice. The air chief also laid flowers at his tomb.
Rashid Minhas’s determination continues to serve as a beacon of light for PAF personnel. His sacrifice, courage and loyalty remain a powerful example for generations and a reminder of the duty to defend the homeland.
President Zardari praises PAF
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif separately paid tribute to the martyrs, officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Air Force on Air Force Day.
In his message, President Zardari appreciated the PAF’s outstanding performance, saying it had demonstrated professional superiority in air battles and played a decisive role in what he described as the battle of truth.
He said the PAF’s performance was the result of courageous leadership and excellent planning. The president added that the force maintained its tradition of fighting despite being outnumbered.
President Zardari said that regardless of how powerful the enemy may be, it cannot shake Pakistan’s resolve.
PM Shehbaz honours PAF sacrifices
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the bravery, professionalism and sacrifices of the Pakistan Air Force were a matter of pride for the nation.
He recalled how PAF falcons thwarted the enemy’s plans during the 1965 war, adding that the sacrifices of the force’s martyrs remain a source of national pride.
The prime minister also said the PAF demonstrated its full capabilities in what he described as Marka-e-Haq. According to him, the force fought the enemy in exemplary coordination with the other armed services. He said courageous leadership and extraordinary combat skills were manifestations of the PAF’s success.
Naqvi pays tribute to PAF heroes
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also issued a message on Air Force Day, describing September 7, 1965, as a historic day marked by extraordinary bravery by the Pakistan Air Force.
Naqvi said the PAF’s falcons crushed the enemy’s pride during the war, while describing Squadron Leader MM Alam’s bravery as a golden chapter in military history. He called the destruction of five aircraft within moments a historic feat by MM Alam and said the entire nation was proud of the professional skills and capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force.
The interior minister said PAF martyrs and veterans had made the defence of the homeland invincible through their sacrifices. He also described the spirit of defence and patriotism displayed by the force’s officers and personnel as worthy of emulation.
According to Naqvi, Air Force Day serves as a reminder of the eternal sacrifices of veterans and martyrs, whose contributions remain alive in the nation’s collective memory.
He said the nation was proud of the heroes of the Pakistan Air Force and would always remember their unparalleled sacrifices.
