PTBP Web Desk
A special Guard of Honour ceremony was held on Wednesday at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi to honour Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, following his elevation to the prestigious rank of Field Marshal. This ceremonial recognition marked his exceptional leadership during recent military operations and growing national appreciation for his role in defending the country.
The ceremony took place at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada (Monument of Martyrs) within GHQ, a sacred site where the nation remembers its heroes. Field Marshal Munir laid a floral wreath and offered Fateha (prayers) for the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Pakistan’s sovereignty. The emotional tribute served as a powerful reminder of the courage and resilience of the country’s armed forces.
The federal government announced Field Marshal Munir’s elevation in recognition of his decisive leadership during Pakistan’s recent military confrontation with India. His role in coordinating and leading the successful retaliatory action, named Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, earned him the highest military rank.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, “COAS General Munir led the Pakistan Army with exemplary courage and determination and coordinated the war strategy and efforts of the armed forces in a comprehensive manner.”
This elevation to field marshal is one of the rarest honours in Pakistan’s military history and reflects the trust placed in Munir by both the armed forces and the civilian leadership. It also underscores the importance of unified military command during times of national crisis.
In his brief address during the ceremony, Field Marshal Munir dedicated the honour to the people of Pakistan and all branches of the country’s armed forces. He specifically acknowledged the sacrifices of the martyrs, law enforcement agencies, and civil veterans, calling them the “steel wall” that defended the nation.
“This honour is a tribute to the entire Pakistani nation and the valiant men and women of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, particularly the martyrs who stood like a wall of steel against Indian unprovoked, cowardly and unlawful aggression,” he stated.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) shared images and videos from the event, highlighting the solemnity and pride of the occasion. The ceremony was attended by senior military officials and dignitaries, making it a moment of national significance.
The ceremony and promotion follow Pakistan’s robust response to India’s unprovoked air strikes on the night of May 6 and 7. Indian forces launched simultaneous attacks on several Pakistani cities, resulting in 53 deaths, including 13 military personnel and 40 civilians.
In response, Pakistan initiated Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos on May 10, a swift and strategic military campaign targeting Indian military installations across multiple sectors. The retaliatory action led to the downing of six Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale aircraft, and the destruction of dozens of drones.
The confrontation, which lasted over 87 hours, concluded with a ceasefire brokered by the United States. Although the situation remains tense, both sides agreed to de-escalate following international diplomatic intervention.
India’s aggression was reportedly triggered by an attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) last month, in which 26 tourists were killed. India hastily blamed Pakistan for the incident without presenting any credible evidence, a move that Islamabad rejected outright.
The rank of Field Marshal is the highest possible designation in the Pakistan Army and is awarded under exceptional circumstances. Field Marshal Munir now joins the rare ranks of military figures who have been conferred this title in the country’s history.
His promotion comes at a crucial time when regional tensions are high, and Pakistan’s defense strategy requires firm leadership. Analysts believe that the recognition of Munir’s role will further consolidate military unity and strategic coherence.
The Guard of Honour ceremony also served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s armed forces. Citizens and political leaders across the country have paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the confrontation.
Social media has been flooded with messages of support for the Pakistan Army, and several civil society organizations have held memorial services in honour of the martyrs. Educational institutions observed a minute of silence, and national flags were flown at half-mast in several regions.
