KARACHI: A dignified change of guard ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Quaid on Saturday to mark the 60th Defence and Martyrs Day.
A contingent of cadets from the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Academy Asghar Khan assumed guard duties at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. They replaced the Pakistan Rangers, who had earlier been performing the ceremonial responsibility.
Air Vice Marshal Shahryar Khan attended the ceremony as the chief guest. He laid a floral wreath at the mausoleum and paid tribute to the Father of the Nation. He also recorded his impressions in the guestbook, reviewed the parade, and inspected the new PAF guard after they formally took charge of guard duties.
In his address, Air Vice Marshal Shahryar Khan said the Pakistan Air Force has always stood firm in defending the country. He added that the PAF would continue to protect the homeland with determination and strength. Referring to the spirit of September 6, he said the day was a reminder of unity, sacrifice, and resilience.
The Air Vice Marshal described the change of guards not as a mere tradition but as a reaffirmation of commitment to Quaid-e-Azam’s vision. “We are the custodians of his ideals and will defeat the enemy on every front,” he stated.
He also highlighted the PAF’s role beyond national defence, including humanitarian and disaster relief operations. He praised the leadership of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu for modernizing the force and ensuring its readiness for future challenges.
Commanding officers present at the ceremony paid tribute to martyrs and their families, vowing to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.
Across Pakistan, Defence and Martyrs Day was observed with zeal. The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered for the progress and prosperity of the country and for martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
Read Also: PAF Executes Cyber Attacks on Indian Air Force Networks
