Change Of Guards Ceremony Held at Mazar-e-Quaid on Defence Day

Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: Change of Guards ceremony was held today at Mazar-e-Quaid to commemorate Defence Day of Pakistan and to pay homage to the Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. A smartly turned-out contingent comprising 73 cadets, including 7 female cadets, from Pakistan Air Force Academy Asghar Khan assumed the guard duties at the mausoleum. The ceremonial handover reflected the highest standards of discipline, precision and respect for the visionary leader who laid the foundations of Pakistan.

The proceedings of the day commenced with special prayers and Quran recitation for the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the defence of the motherland. The solemn ceremony also served to renew the pledge of making Pakistan Air Force an invincible force, prepared to meet every challenge with determination and professionalism. Air Vice Marshal Shahryar Khan, Air Officer Commanding, PAF Academy Asghar Khan, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. In his address, he highlighted that under the visionary leadership of Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Pakistan Air Force has transformed into a “Next Generation Air Force.” He emphasized that through its spirit of innovation and operational excellence, PAF has compelled the world to acknowledge its competence and readiness, both in times of peace and during war. Citing the successful conduct of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, he reaffirmed that PAF, alongside Pakistan’s Armed Forces, continues to guard the aerial frontiers of the nation with unwavering resolve.

Following the ceremony, the Chief Guest laid a floral wreath at the mausoleum, offered Fateha and inscribed his expressions in the guest book, paying rich tribute to the enduring vision and leadership of Quaid-e-Azam.

This Change of Guards ceremony by Pakistan Air Force holds profound significance, symbolizing the continuity of Quaid-e-Azam’s ideals and reaffirming the nation’s collective resolve to uphold his vision of a strong, secure and progressive Pakistan. It also reflects the commitment of PAF personnel to carry forward the legacy of courage, sacrifice and professionalism as guardians of the country’s aerial frontiers.