Lahore Corps Commander Lieutenant General Sadiq Ali on Tuesday said the terrorists should fight men in uniform instead of targeting civilians like cowards.
Addressing a Defence Day ceremony at Fortress stadium, the corps commander said, “We have understood enemy’s every single move and their ambition. Operation Zarb-e-Azb is not only a military operation, but also a name of a doctrine to eliminate terrorism.”
Lieutenant General Ali said during the 17 consecutive days of war, Pakistani armed forces made the enemy to bite the dust while the nation stood by its armed forces.
“Independence is a blessing, and it is our responsibility should cherish it,” he said.
He said the acts of sacrifice, courage and dedication to duty demonstrated by the officers and men of Pak Army bear testimony to commitment and glorious resolve of Pakistan Armed forces for the defence and stability of the motherland.
The corps commander said that Defence Day of Pakistan reminded us of our pledge to defend our country no matter what the cost.
He said the Pakistan Army had always remained in the forefront to serve the country with dignity and pride.
He emphasised that the wars were only won with national solidarity and it was the unity and joint resolve of the nation as a whole that we have persevered successfully against all odds during the course of our history.
He commended the sacrifices rendered by security forces and law enforcement agencies during the war on terror.
He said the families of Shuhada were the most valued asset of the country and the nation holds them in high esteem.
The corps commander urged the officers and soldiers to follow the footsteps of their valiant predecessors and spare no effort whatsoever to ensure impregnable defence of the motherland.
Earlier, Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Lahore Corps Commander Lieutenant General Ali laid wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada to pay homage to the martyrs of Pakistan Army and offered Fateha.
A smartly turned out guard of honour presented the salute.
Later, the families of Shuhada placed flowers at the Shuhada monument and offered Fateha.
The audience gave a standing ovation to the families of the martyred on their arrival at the venue. The ceremonies were attended by families of martyred, war veterans, civil and military personnel, dignitaries and representatives from a cross section of society.