Pakistan Navy celebrated the 52nd anniversary of Defence Day with due solemnity and reverence.
The day is reminiscent of a glorious chapter in our nation’s history when the unmatched courage of our armed forces and infallible spirit of the nation foiled the nefarious designs of a much bigger and deceitful enemy during 1965 Indo-Pak War.
In his message on the occasion, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah paid tribute to the Shuhada and Ghazis who rendered immense sacrifices, while the nation stood united behind its soldiers, sailors and airmen to defend the motherland. He said that notwithstanding our earnest desire for peaceful coexistence, we need to remain alive to the challenges and developments taking place in our region.
As hegemonic and domineering mindset prevails in our eastern neighbourhood, we cannot be oblivious to the threats to our sovereignty and national security. The naval chief highlighted that Pakistan is making steady and determined progress on all fronts. However, this does not come without its share of challenges. In the maritime domain; piracy, maritime terrorism and organised crimes continue to pose security challenges to the peace and stability of the region.
The admiral reiterated that Pakistan Navy was playing a vital role in strengthening maritime and coastal security through various initiatives including raising a dedicated Task Force-88 as well as Coastal Security and Harbour Defence Force. Pakistan Navy was also playing its due role as part of ‘Operation Radd-ul-Fassad’ in collaboration with Pakistan Army, PAF and other Law Enforcement Agencies in combating security challenges on the internal front.
The day dawned with special prayers in all naval mosques for solidarity and integrity of the country. Quran Khawani was also held for eternal peace of Shuhada. Wreath laying and Fateha khawani were also held at Shuhada’s memorials. Deputy Chief of Naval Staff Rear Admiral Farrokh Ahmad laid floral wreath at Shuhada Monument at Naval Headquarters, Islamabad and offered Fateha.
Flag hoisting ceremonies were held at all Pakistan Navy units and establishments where the Commanding Officers addressed the special gatherings and highlighted the significance of the day. All ships and establishments were decorated and illuminated in accordance with the traditions. In addition, sports activities and Declamation/Quiz/Milli Naghma competitions were also held at various Navy units and establishment.
Besides various ceremonies, the hallmark of the day remained the mega display of professional acumen by Pakistan Navy Aviation and Special Forces at Sea View Beach, Clifton, Karachi. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah was the chief guest of the occasion. The event included a demonstration of coordinated assault to rescue the hostages by navy commandoes. This was followed by a splendid exhibition of aerobatics and Search and Rescue (SAR) drills by navy helicopters. In the end, Special Services Wings of all three services presented a free fall jump display and landed amidst chanting crowds present at the venue.
