GHQ Rawalpindi Leads Nationwide Defence and Martyrs’ Day Tributes

Defence and Martyrs’ Day was observed across Pakistan with solemn and dignified ceremonies, reaffirming the nation’s enduring commitment to the defence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. From General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi to Quetta, Karachi and Lahore, civil and military leadership paid tribute to the martyrs and veterans whose sacrifices have safeguarded Pakistan. The ceremonies served as a reminder that the country’s freedom and security have been built on the courage, resilience and sacrifices of its armed forces and citizens.

At GHQ Rawalpindi, a smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Army presented a salute at the Martyrs’ Memorial. The Adjutant General of the Pakistan Army visited the memorial, laid a floral wreath and offered prayers for the martyrs. He also met the families of the fallen personnel, expressed solidarity with them, listened to their concerns and assured them of all possible assistance. The interaction underscored the national responsibility to honour not only those who laid down their lives for Pakistan but also the families who continue to bear the consequences of their sacrifice.

In Quetta, Defence and Martyrs’ Day ceremonies were held across Balochistan in the presence of the Governor, Chief Minister, Corps Commander and senior civil and military officials. A Pakistan Army contingent presented a salute at the Martyrs’ Memorial, while civil and military authorities laid floral wreaths and offered Fateha. Frontier Corps Balochistan also organised a ceremony to pay tribute to the martyrs. In Gwadar, roads were decorated with banners highlighting national resolve, sacrifice, perseverance and courage, while citizens expressed their love for Pakistan and paid rich tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the homeland.

In Karachi, a ceremony at Malir Garrison was attended by the Sindh Chief Minister, Corps Commander Karachi and senior officials of Sindh Rangers and police. The Sindh Chief Minister and Corps Commander Karachi laid floral wreaths at the Martyrs’ Memorial and offered Fateha, while a smartly turned-out army contingent presented a salute. They also met the families of the martyrs, reaffirming that the sacrifices of the fallen remain deeply honoured by the state and the people. In Lahore, a separate ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Iqbal, where Punjab Rangers presented a salute and the Lahore Corps Commander laid a floral chadar and offered Fateha.

The nationwide observance carried a broader message of national unity and collective resolve at a time when Pakistan continues to confront security, economic and regional challenges. The ceremonies recalled the spirit of sacrifice and national cohesion associated with Defence and Martyrs’ Day, emphasizing that the defence of Pakistan is a shared national responsibility. Tributes to the martyrs across the country reaffirmed the determination of the Pakistani nation to preserve its independence, strengthen national unity and continue working toward a secure, peaceful and prosperous future.