Islamabad: Pakistan Air Force marked September 7 as Martyrs’ Day, paying homage at all PAF Bases nationwide to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the country.

According to Radio Pakistan, the day began with a special Du’aa and Quran Khawani for the Shuhada of the 1965 and 1971 Wars, as well as other PAF personnel who have died in the line of duty. At a ceremony in Air Headquarters, Islamabad, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu emphasized that the sacrifices of these individuals are the foundation of PAF’s legacy of courage, professionalism, and commitment to national defense.

In his remarks, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu noted that the actions of past heroes are not just historical records but a living legacy that assigns a significant responsibility to the current generation. He described the martyrs as enduring symbols of courage and national resolve, asserting that their legacy is a reminder of the sacred trust of defending the motherland, a commitment that must be upheld with dedication.

Following the ceremony, the Air Chief laid a floral wreath at the Martyrs’ Monument and offered prayers in memory of the fallen. Concurrently, a related ceremony took place at the mausoleum of Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider, in Karachi. Air Vice Marshal Akhtar Imran Saddozai, representing the Chief of the Air Staff, offered Fateha and laid a wreath in honor of Minhas, celebrating his courage and ultimate sacrifice.