The armed forces are celebrating Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day with traditional zeal and fervour today (August 14) with activities planned across the country. The day’s festivities began with celebratory messages to the people from service chiefs of the armed forces.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, on behalf of the Armed Forces, extended felicitations to the nation on Pakistan’s78th Independence Day.
“As we pay homage to our founding fathers, we honor their indomitable spirit, resolute determination, and unparalleled sacrifices under the visionary leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, sacrifices that paved the way for independence. Their courage, foresight and unshakeable faith in the cause of freedom remain an enduring beacon of guidance,” read a statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).
“The unbreakable bond between the Armed Forces and the people is the cornerstone of our collective strength. On this Independence Day, let us renew our resolve to strive for peace, progress, and unity, upholding the ideals of Faith, Unity, and Discipline to realize the dream of a resilient, prosperous, and progressive Pakistan,” the statement added.
The Pakistan Air Force’s annual flypast featuring featuring fighter jets was slated for 1.30pm today.
A Change of Guard ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi to mark Independence Day anniversary.
Cadets of the Pakistan Naval Academy assumed duties of ceremonial guards at the mausoleum, a tradition observed every year on August 14.
The Pakistan Navy’s ceremonial guard comprised two contingents — one of sailors and the other of cadets from the Pakistan Naval Academy. The sailors’ platoon was led by Lieutenant Ali Hassan, while the cadets’ platoon was commanded by Chief Cadet Captain Muhammad Zain.
Commandant Pakistan Naval Academy Commodore Tassawar Iqbal was the chief guest, while parade commander duties were performed by Lieutenant Commander Samiullah.
The Pakistan Navy guards presented a national salute to Quaid-e-Azam, after which the chief guest inspected the newly deployed guards. Commodore Tassawar Iqbal laid a floral wreath at the mausoleum, offered Fateha and recorded his remarks in the visitors’ book.
