Civil, military leadership pays tribute to Major Aziz Bhatti on 61st martyrdom anniversary

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday paid tribute to Major Raja Aziz Bhatti Shaheed, recipient of the Nishan-e-Haider, on his 61st martyrdom anniversary.

In separate messages, they praised Major Aziz Bhatti’s courage and sacrifice during the 1965 War, describing his devotion to the defence of the country as an enduring example for the nation and younger generations.

President Zardari said Major Aziz Bhatti’s sacrifice and valour were a source of pride for the nation and a beacon of guidance for younger generations.

He said Pakistan would continue to remember the sacrifices of its martyrs and salute their patriotism and devotion to the country.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Major Aziz Bhatti had sacrificed his life for the motherland during the 1965 War.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Major Aziz Bhatti stood firm against the enemy in the Burki sector near Lahore during the war and embraced martyrdom on Sept. 12, 1965.

Shehbaz said the soil of the homeland would remain a witness to the courage of those who put their lives on the line for its defence and sanctity.

The armed forces of Pakistan also paid tribute to Major Aziz Bhatti on the occasion.

Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Commander National Strategic Command General Syed Aamer Raza paid rich tribute on behalf of the armed forces, according to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

ISPR said Major Aziz Bhatti defended the Burki sector with extraordinary valour, holding his ground against repeated enemy assaults for five days and nights.

It said his leadership and spirit of sacrifice became an enduring symbol of courage and duty.

The armed forces reaffirmed their resolve to defend Pakistan’s sovereignty and security with the same courage, determination and spirit of sacrifice embodied by Major Aziz Bhatti.