LAHORE MIRROR — Pakistan Air Force Day is being observed today across the country, with the nation paying tribute to the valour and sacrifices of PAF heroes and renewing its resolve to safeguard Pakistan’s skies.
The day is being observed to honour the officers and airmen of the Pakistan Air Force who made supreme sacrifices in defence of the motherland, while acknowledging the force’s distinguished record in safeguarding Pakistan’s aerial frontiers.
The Pakistan Air Force’s decisive role in the 1965 war and its performance in Marka-e-Haq in May 2025 continue to symbolise its combat prowess and professional excellence.
In the 1965 war, the valiant Pakistani pilots, despite limited resources, not only repelled Indian air attacks but also handed India a resounding defeat, displaying unparalleled expertise in aerial combat and unwavering courage.
The PAF ace Muhammad Mahmood Alam, commonly known as M. M. Alam, shot down five Indian Air Force Hawker Hunter Mk. 56 fighters in less than a minute.
Pakistan Air Force observed 7th September as Martyrs’ Day at all PAF Bases across the country to honour the supreme sacrifices of its martyrs and pay homage to their courage, valour and devotion to duty.
The day commenced with a special Du’aa and Quran Khawani for the Shuhada of the 1965 and 1971 Wars, the brave martyrs of Marka-e-Haq and all PAF personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty since the inception of Pakistan.
Speaking at the Martyrs’ Day ceremony held at Air Headquarters, Islamabad, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu paid rich tribute to PAF martyrs, underscoring that their sacrifices constitute the foundation of PAF’s proud legacy of courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to the defence of the motherland.
The Air Chief said that the valiant deeds of our forefathers are not merely chapters of history but a living legacy that places a profound responsibility upon the present generation.
Paying homage to the martyrs, Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu said our Shuhada are enduring symbols of courage, sacrifice and national resolve. Their legacy reminds us that the defence of our motherland is a sacred trust, which we shall continue to uphold with steadfast commitment.
Later, the Air Chief laid a floral wreath at the Martyrs’ Monument and offered fateha in solemn remembrance of the gallant martyrs of PAF.
A ceremony in connection with Pakistan Air Force Day was also held at the mausoleum of Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider, in Karachi today.
Air Officer Commanding, Southern Air Command, Air Vice Marshal Akhtar Imran Saddozai offered Fateha and laid a floral wreath at the mausoleum of the national hero on behalf of Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu.
Paying rich tribute to the legendary defender of the country’s air frontiers, the Pakistan Air Force contingent honoured the courage, unwavering commitment and ultimate sacrifice of Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider.
