A TRUE hero who would keep every Pakistani’s head high for generations is no more with us: Air Commodore (r) M. M. Alam, Sitara-i-Jurat ‘Bar’, the legendary fighter pilot has passed away.

Pakistan Air Force is much smaller in size as compared to the army, but it has been very lucky to proportionally produce more legendary figures than its sister services. Mr Alam was definitely one of the best Pakistan Air Force has produced.

He made a world record in less than a minute, i.e., he shot down five Indian fighter aircraft in 55 seconds, thus becoming an ‘ace’ pilot in the 1965 war against India in the shortest possible time.

This unique feat was neither achieved by American fighter pilots in Korea or Vietnam or in the Middle East nor by any European or American fighter pilots during World War II despite their long engagements.

Those 55 seconds in the murky weather of September 1965 unleashed an unprecedented fury into the veins of Indian Air Force whose backbone was virtually crushed by this greatest fighter pilot of the modern jet warfare era and, overall, one of the best in the history of fighter flying.

I commend the present Chief of Air Staff who visited him from time to time during Mr Alam’s illness and spent time with him despite his busy schedule.

Mr Alam will be remembered forever.

M. ASIF Karachi

Opinion

Editorial

United stance
Updated 13 Nov, 2024

United stance

It would've been better if the OIC-Arab League summit had announced practical measures to punish Israel.
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

AN IMF mission is in Islamabad for unusual, early talks with the Pakistani authorities as the lender seems worried...
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

BARA tehsil, a region typically known for its security challenges and socioeconomic problems, can now boast the...
System failure
Updated 12 Nov, 2024

System failure

Relevant institutions often treat right to internet connectivity with the same disdain as they do civil and political rights.
Narrowing the gap
12 Nov, 2024

Narrowing the gap

PERHAPS a pat on the back is in order for the ECP. Together with Nadra, it has made visible efforts to reduce...
Back on their feet
12 Nov, 2024

Back on their feet

A STIRRING comeback in the series has ended Pakistan’s 22-year wait for victory against world champions Australia....