The story of the advancement of Pakistan Army is the tale of the birth of Pakistan, since its inception from the freckled nucleus of a regal legacy to its present status of an avant-garde and combat-tested field Army; it is an epoch of development which leaves behind its trials and tribulations, calamities and conflicts, as it struggled, with scarcity of possessions to embark on its shaping years. This is, conceivably, the enormous paradigm amongst few armies in history to have faced a war right at its setting up and, in the subsequent years, besides guarding the geographical precincts, it is always prepared to protect the ideological boundaries of the country.
The birth of Royal Pakistan Navy came with the creation of Pakistan on the historic day of 14 August 1947. Like other navies of the commonwealth, Pakistan’s Navy also had the prefix “Royal” until the country was proclaimed a republic in 1956. At 0800 on 14 August 1947, the flag of Rear Admiral J W Jefford, Flag Officer Commanding Royal Pakistan Navy was hosted on his Flagship HMPS GODAVARI. The Admiral’s first signal addressed to the officers and men of the RPN was flashed to all ships and shore establishments.
PAF was born on 14th of August 1947, with the independence of Pakistan. The growth of PAF is a story of unusual struggle and sacrifice. A tiny auxiliary Service, with a small number of personnel and insignificant equipment, emerging as a powerful weapon of the country’s defence, was a thrilling phenomenon. The dedication of its pioneers shaped the future of a force, destined to gain respect, after proving its worth in the wars of 1965 and 1971, where it outclassed a much larger enemy, India. The story of PAF is a tale of development, despite heavy odds and limitations. It is the narration of a nation’s desire, for preserving its freedom, through the use of technology and willpower, working side by side.
COAS SPEECH
AZADI PARADE – 2011
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen!
1. Please accept my heartiest felicitations on 64th anniversary of the Independence Day of Pakistan. I thank our distinguished guests for joining us tonight. Your presence has added to the grace and spirit of the Azadi Parade.
2. Azadi Parade by Pakistan Army has become a landmark event on our National Calendar, which further strengthens our bondage with our beloved motherland. This parade reminds us of the sacrifices that made the dream of Pakistan a possibility. It also gives us a chance to renew the pledge of our commitment to Pakistan.
Ladies and Gentlemen!
3. 14th August 1947 was a historic day for the Muslims of the Subcontinent. This day is testimony to the indomitable will of the Muslims to establish a separate homeland under the inspiring leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
4. Let us, on this day, humbly thank Allah Almighty. Let us pray together that He gives us strength and wisdom to preserve and protect the ideology, solidarity, integrity and a bright future for Pakistan. We must stay committed to the ideals of Pakistan and remain ever ready to protect our motherland. I have no doubt that the challenges we face today, will only strengthen our resolve.
Ladies and Gentlemen!
5. The basis of our existence is the ‘Ideology of Pakistan’. Therefore, each one of us must endeavour to pass it on to our future generations. We have a firm belief that by following the golden principles of Islam, we shall progress and win a respectable place in the comity of nations. We should never forget that Islam is the religion of peace. This great religion is the bond that binds us together and not a force that divides us.
Ladies and Gentlemen!
6. For past Sixty Four years, the Armed Forces of Pakistan have performed their sacred duty to defend Pakistan. Our officers and soldiers have displayed great courage, determination and professional excellence in discharging their duties. The rank and file of Pakistan Army draw strength from the contributions of Pakistan Air Force, Navy, civilian law
enforcement agencies and especially the people of Pakistan. We could not have achieved this success without the resolve, commitment and perseverance displayed by the people of Pakistan.
7. Let us acknowledge and honour the sacrifices of our brave soldiers and citizens and pay tribute to their families. Their sacrifices, undoubtedly, underscore the nation’s ability and commitment to deal with any threat to the integrity, sovereignty and well being of Pakistan.
Ladies and Gentlemen!
8. Today, our challenges are far greater and complex than ever before. We have to put Pakistan firmly on the path to prosperity.
9. I have no doubt that given our National resilience, abundance of resources and above all the huge reservoir of highly talented youth; we will overcome all difficulties – We will INSHALLAH.
10. May Allah bless and protect our beloved motherland Pakistan.
Thank You and Azadi Mubarak
Pakistan Army Zindabad
Pakistan Paindabad
Rehearsal of Azadi Parade 2011 at Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul:
