The graduation ceremony held at PAF Academy Risalpur

Lahore: The graduation parade of 134 GD (P), 79 Engineering Course, and 14 A&SD courses was held at PAF Academy Risalpur today.
Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah, Chief of Naval Staff was the chief guest at the occasion. Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force was also present at the ceremony.

While addressing at the occasion, the Naval Chief said, “PAF possesses a variety of potent and high tech platforms and military equipment. Various new additions are also factored in to maintain it as a strong instrument of our national defence.  Being the future torch bearers, I am certain that your training has imbibed in you the spirit to emulate your ancestors and set even superior examples of heroism and glory”.

He further said, “Pakistan is a peace loving country and seeks harmonious and peaceful coexistence with all countries; however, this desire for peace must not be construed as a sign of weakness.  Any attempt to browbeat Pakistan would neither succeed nor serve the purpose of peace and prosperity in the region.  Our valiant armed forces are fully geared up to give a befitting response in case of any misadventure.

In the current security scenario certain extremist elements abetted externally are at play to disrupt our peace and harmony. Our defence forces, supported by the nation, are fighting the menace of terrorism bravely and effectively. PAF has extended all out support to Pakistan Army in combating anti state elements in operation Zerb-e-Azb.  Led from the front, PAF has made significant and meaningful contribution in the success of ongoing operation against terrorists”.

A total of 104 Under Training Officers including 08 females were graduated at the occasion. The Chief Guest awarded branch insignias to the graduating officers and also gave away trophies to the distinction holders. The chief guest awarded Quaid-e-Azam Banner to No 1 Squadron, the new Champion Squadron of the Academy.

Chief of the Air Staff Trophy for best performance in Flying Training and the coveted Sword of Honour for Overall Best Performance in College of Flying Training were awarded to Pilot Officer Mohammad Kashif; whereas, Chief of the Air Staff Trophy for best performance in Engineering and Sword of Honour for Overall Best Performance in College of Aeronautical Engineering were clinched by Pilot Officer Shahan Qamar. Trophies for Best Performance in General Service Training in College of Flying Training and  overall best performance in 14 A&SD course were awarded to Pilot Officer Jawad Jahangir, while Pilot Officer Nasar Mubarik of 79 Engineering course was awarded with the trophy for Best Performance in General Service Training in College of Aeronautical Engineering.

The ceremony was followed by thrilling performance by “Eaglets”-the Para Motor Glider team of the Academy.“Sherdils”, the PAF Academy Aerobatics team also displayed an exhilarating aerial display at the occasion. The icing on the cake was a scintillating aerial display by the Pride of Pakistan, JF-17 Thunder aircraft.

Earlier, on his arrival at the Academy, the Naval Chief was received by Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force and Air Vice Marshal Aasim Zaheer, Air Officer Commanding PAF Academy, Risalpur. The ceremony was witnessed by high-ranking Military & Civil Officials, Diplomats, foreign dignitaries and a large number of guests of graduating Under Training Officers.