The officers and soldiers to follow the footsteps of their valiant predecessors : General Sadiq Ali

Lahore : Commander Lahore Corps, Lieutenant General Sadiq Ali has said that the acts of sacrifice, courage and dedication to duty demonstrated by the officers and men of Pak Army bear testimony to commitment and glorious resolve of Pakistan Armed forces for the defence and stability of the motherland.

He was addressing large gatherings held in connection with Defence Day celebrations at Fortress Stadium and Yadgar-e- Shuhada Lahore Garrison, here today.

The ceremonies were attended by families of Shuhada, War veterans, civil and military personnel,dignitaries and representatives from a cross section of society.

Lieutenant General Sadiq Ali said that Defence Day of Pakistan reminds us of our pledge to defend our country no matter what the cost. He said that Pakistan Army has always remained in the forefront to serve the country with dignity and pride. He emphasised that the wars are only won with national solidarity and it is the unity and joint resolve of the nation as a whole that we have persevered successfully against all odds during the course of our history.

He commended the sacrifices rendered by security forces and law enforcement agencies during the war on terror. He said that the families of Shuhada are the most valued asset of the country and the nation holds them in high esteem.

Commander Lahore Corps urged the officers and soldiers to follow the footsteps of their valiant predecessors and spare no effort whatsoever to ensure impregnable defence of the motherland.

Earlier, Chief Minister Punjab, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif and Commander Lahore Corps Lieutenant General Sadiq Ali laid floral wreath at Yadgar-e- Shuhada to pay homage to the martyrs of Pakistan Army and offered Fateha. A smartly turned out guard of honour presented the salute.

Later, the families of Shuhada placed flowers at the Shuhada monument and offered Fateha.

The audience gave a standing ovation to the Shuhada families on their arrival at the venue.