THE story of Pakistan is incomplete without acknowledging the bravery of those who sacrificed their lives guarding our borders, skies and seas. While some names are celebrated in our history books, many heroes of war remain unsung; men who defended the homeland in its darkest hours with unmatched courage and commitment.

Today, as we observe the anniversary of the attainment of nuclear status, we should pay tribute to the valiant warriors of the Pakistan Army, Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Air Force, who displayed extraordinary bravery during the wars of 1965, 1971, 2019 and 2025. Their great sacrifices remind us that peace and freedom come at a high cost, one that is often paid in silence by those who do not seek recognition, but serve with honour.

Air-Cdre Muhammad Mahmood Alam, fondly remembered as M.M. Alam, remains a legend in air combat history. During the 1965 war, he etched his name in golden letters by downing five Indian Air Force jets in under a minute, a feat unmatched to this day. Yet, outside military circles, his story is rarely told with the reverence that it deserves.

The 1971 war remains a painful chapter in our history. Amid the chaos, the role of many Biharis and native East Pakistanis, including volunteers from the East Pakistan Civil Armed Forces (EPCAF), was overshadowed by the larger political outcome.

These individuals stood by Pakistan and resisted armed insurgency at great personal risk. Their stories of loyalty and loss deserve national acknowledgment.

In 2019, when hostilities flared again, one of our air force ace pilots rose to the occasion and shot down an intruding Indian MiG-21, capturing IAF’s Wg-Cdr Abhinandan Varthaman.

The professionalism and precision shown during Operation Swift Retort reminded the world of PAF’s vigilance and capability. More recently, PAF pilots shot down Indian Rafale jets and destroyed an S-400 missile battery. The respected names of all such heroes must be part of national discourse.

It is not enough to remember these heroes on special occasions alone. Their stories should be formally included in school and college curricula so our youth may learn not only about wars and treaties, but also about the courage, patriotism and selflessness that protect our freedom.

Their lives offer lessons in discipline, dedication and national pride. It is time that their names found a permanent place in the hearts of every Pakistani. Their stories must be told, not just as a tribute to their service, but as a source of inspiration for generations to come.

Razi Alam
Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 28th, 2025