Gen Asim Munir elevated as Field Marshal

ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet on Tuesday decided to promote Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir as Field Marshal, just over a week after Pakistan managed to thwart Indian aggression.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired the meeting, as the participants also unanimously decided that Air Chief Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu would continue serving after his retirement. It means his tenure has been extended.

At the same time, the martyrs and ghazis, including the civilians, of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos would also receive awards in recognition of their significant contributions.

It means the current army chief has become the second person in Pakistan to assume the role of Field Marshal. The only previous example in the country was Field Marshal Ayub Khan. He also served as the President of Pakistan.  

‘THIS IS NOT AN INDIVIDUAL HONOUR’

Reacting to the move, Field Marshal Asim Munir said, “I dedicate this honour to the entire nation, the Pakistan Armed Forces, and especially to the civilian and military martyrs and veterans.”

“”I am thankful for the trust of the President of Pakistan, the Prime Minister, and the Cabinet. This is a national trust, and millions like Asim are ready to lay down their lives to uphold it,” Field Marshal Asim Munir said.

“This is not an individual honour, but one for the Pakistan Armed Forces and the entire nation.”

EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP

Earlier, Shehbaz met President Asif Zardari and took him into confidence over the issue.

The federal cabinet noted that the nation went through a difficult period in recent weeks – a reference to the Indian aggression.

India imposed an unjustified war without any provocation on the night between May 6 and 7, during which children and women were targeted, the cabinet said.

The entire episode, it was noted, was an attempt trample upon the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan.  

In this scenario, it said the army chief led the military in an exemplary fashion and with dedication during the recent conflict with India, effectively coordinating the armed forces’ military strategy and operations.

His leadership resulted in a thumping and historic victory for Pakistan, the cabinet members said.

WHAT IS A FIELD MARSHAL?

A Field Marshal is the highest military rank, which represents a five-star rank. It’s senior to general officer ranks and typically signifies a commander of exceptional merit or a figure of national significance. While the rank is often honorary and doesn’t necessarily grant additional powers, it is a recognition of a person’s distinguished military service and leadership.