ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Navy on Sunday celebrated the 55th anniversary of Defence and Martyrs’ Day with reverence and effervescent spirit.

The Navy said in a statement that the day was observed “to commemorate sacrifices of our armed forces, shuhada, ghazis and national heroes, who stood against the enemy with unparalleled display of unity and tenacity during 1965 Indo-Pak War”.

In his message on the occasion, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi paid homage to the shuhada and ghazis who remained undeterred by the size of the enemy and foiled its nefarious designs with grit, courage and honour.

“On this day, the nation acknowledges the sacrifices of its gallant and resilient soldiers, sailors and airmen who defended the ideological and geographical frontiers of their motherland,” he said, adding that Pakistan Navy was fully capable and prepared to give a befitting response to any misadventure by the enemy across the entire spectrum of maritime threat.

The admiral said: “This day being a symbol of courage, resolve, sacrifice and national integrity demands a pledge to work selflessly and to adhere resolutely to the Quaid’s great principles by anchoring strong faith in God.”

The day dawned with special prayers offered in all naval mosques for preservation of integrity and sovereignty of Pakistan. Quran Khawani was held for interminable peace of the martyrs of the 1965 war.

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi laid floral wreath at Shuhada’s Monument at Naval Headquarters, Islamabad, interacted with the families of the martyred and offered Fateha.

Wreath-laying ceremonies were held and prayers were offered at Shuhada’s memorials at the Field Command Headquarters.

Flag-hoisting ceremonies were held at all naval units and establishments where commanding officers of all units and establishments addressed special gatherings of officers and men and highlighted the significance of the day.

The Pakistan Navy said all ships and establishments were decorated and illuminated in accordance with naval traditions.

Other activities of the day included various colorful sports activities and Defence Day fishing boats rallies/races at Gwadar and Creeks areas.

Published in Dawn, September 7th, 2020