Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day celebrations in Islamabad carried an added wave of national pride this year as the country honoured its air warriors for their decisive role in the May conflict with India. Among those recognised was Air Vice Marshal Aurangzeb Ahmed, whose leadership and communication during the crisis made him a celebrated figure both in Pakistan and abroad.
The awards ceremony, attended by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighted the unmatched bravery and skill of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) during what the government has termed “Marka-i-Haq” — the Battle of Truth. The conflict, which followed India’s unsubstantiated accusations over the April 22 Pahalgam attack, escalated into a deadly exchange when Indian air strikes on May 6–7 killed civilians in Pakistan. In a swift and calculated response, the PAF downed six Indian aircraft, struck multiple air defence assets, and rendered several Indian airbases non-operational — all without losing a single Pakistani jet.
As PAF Director General Public Relation, Air Vice Marshal Aurangzeb Ahmed, awarded Sitara-i-Basalat, became the face of the nation’s response, describing the counterstrikes as being carried out “at a time and place of our choosing,” reflecting the force’s strategic discipline and unwavering resolve; his composed yet firm briefings transformed him into an internet sensation, symbolising the nation’s defiance and unity.
Honours awarded included eight Sitara-i-Jurat, five Tamgha-i-Jurat, 24 Sitara-i-Basalat, 45 Tamgha-i-Basalat, and hundreds of commendations to officers and enlisted personnel alike. International recognition also followed, with Chinese Air Force chief Lieutenant General Wang Gang praising the PAF’s “decisive and measured” actions during the clash.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif dismissed Indian claims of downing Pakistani aircraft, reinforcing that the PAF’s precision strikes not only destroyed enemy assets but also showcased Pakistan’s aerial superiority.
This Independence Day, the nation’s salute was a tribute to courage, skill, and leadership in the face of high-stakes confrontation.
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