55th Air Force Day is being observed today with zeal and zest

Pakistan on September 7 observes its 55th Air Force Day to pay homage to the martyrs of the PAF for sacrificing their lives in defence of the country during the Indo-Pak War in 1965.

Air Force Day is celebrated across the nation to commemorate the dexterity and valor of the defenders of air space of the country against Indian aggression in September 1965 when our valiant pilots despite limited resources not only annihilated Indian air aggression but also inflicted humiliating defeat on the so-called mighty India.

Ceremonies were held at the tombs of Rashid Minhas and MM Alam in Karachi. A smartly turned-out contingent of cadets presented guard of honour, at the tombs during ceremonies held in Karachi.

With traditional fervour, special prayers were offered for the martyred souls at all PAF bases and installations.

Air-Vice Marshal Ghulam Abbas Ghuman presided over the ceremony as the special guest. He laid a floral wreath and offered prayers at the tombs of veteran officer Rashid Minhas.

Moreover, the PAF will release a special documentary ‘Mujahiddin e Aflak ko Salam‘ which will be aired by Pakistan Television (PTV) and private channels from 9 a.m to 11 a.m. today.

The day belonged to the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) ace Muhammad Mahmood Alam known as M.M.Alam who shot down five of the Indian Air Force Hawker Hunter Mk. 56 fighters in less than a minute. He destroyed the first four Indian fighter jets in first 30 seconds while the fifth became his victim within next 30 seconds.

He claimed 11 kills in a day and became history’s only jet ‘ace-in-a-day’ in One Hundred years history of the World Aircraft.

He is one of the few aviators who made a world record in shooting most jets in shortest time and not only won international acclaim but also was deservedly bestowed with Sitara e Jurrat (SJ) for his dexterity and eagle eyes action.