Pakistan Celebrates Defense Day

Islamabad, Sept 8, IRNA – Pakistan celebrated Defense day on Thursday to commemorate those soldiers who died in the country's war with India in 1965. Pakistan and India have fought three wars (two over Kashmir) since their independence from the British colonial rule in 1947. The five-week war caused thousands of casualties on both sides. It ended in a United Nations (UN) mandated ceasefire and the subsequent issuance of the Tashkent Declaration. The war ended on September 6. Pakistan says that India initiated the war and its troops successfully defended Lahore, Sialkot and other important areas of the country. The Day dawned with prayers in Army Units, Naval Establishments and Air Force Bases for the progress and prosperity of the country. Special prayers were offered for the eternal peace of those who laid lives in defense of the country. The special messages of the Services Chiefs were read out to the troops of Army, Navy and Air Force. Wreath Laying ceremonies were held at the Graves and Monuments of the recipients of the country's highest gallantry awards. Special prayers were also offered after Fajr prayers for the progress, solidarity and prosperity of Pakistan in all the units of Army, Navy and Air Force. The national flag was hoisted at all Army installations. Tribute paid to the valiant soldiers, who had laid down their lives for the defense of country. A change of the guard ceremony held at the Mazar-i-Iqbal to pay homage to the national poet. State and private TV channels, Radio Pakistan and FM stations aired and broadcasted special programs to mark the Day with enthusiasm and fervor. Newspapers will bring out special supplements to highlight importance of the day. Cadets of Pakistan Air Force Academy presented Guard of Honor to the founder of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah and take the charge Guards at his mausoleum in Karachi. People visited the mausoleum of the founder of Pakistan and all those valiant soldiers who had sacrificed their lives in the war. The President and the Prime Minister in their messages paid tributes to the soldiers for their valor and bravery demonstrated to defend the country during the war. Special slogans, songs of Defense Day, Army, Air Force and Navy were also aired. Impressions of soldiers and eyewitnesses' accounts of the war were the hallmark of special programs./end