ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Pakistan’s armed forces personnel were honoured for acts of extraordinary bravery, sacrifice and distinguished service during a prestigious investiture ceremony held today at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad.
President Asif Ali Zardari conferred some of the country's highest military awards on officers and soldiers from the army, air force and navy.
The ceremony recognised individuals for their national contributions and acts of courage carried out under challenging and often life-threatening circumstances. Senior military leadership, families of recipients and distinguished guests attended the event, which paid tribute to both serving personnel and those who laid down their lives in the line of duty.
Among the most emotional moments of the ceremony was the posthumous award of the Sitara-e-Basalat to Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad Ali Shaheed for exceptional bravery and sacrifice during an operation against militants.
Officials stated that during the night between October 4 and October 5, 2024, intelligence reports regarding suspicious militant activity prompted two action teams under his leadership to launch an operation. Following the completion of the search mission, the teams came under a surprise ambush by militants during their return journey.
Despite sustaining severe injuries during the attack, Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad Ali Shaheed reportedly maintained his defensive position and continued commanding troops on the ground. During the intense exchange of fire, he was struck by three bullets and embraced martyrdom while leading from the front.
His actions and sacrifice were described during the ceremony as a powerful example of patriotism, courage and unwavering commitment to duty.
Another recipient of the Sitara-e-Basalat was Sepoy Israr Muhammad, who was recognised for exceptional bravery while serving as a security guard for Pakistan’s Chargé d’Affaires in Afghanistan.
According to details presented at the ceremony, on December 2, 2022, a sniper attack targeted the Pakistani diplomatic mission in Kabul. During the assault, Israr Muhammad reportedly placed himself between the attacker and the diplomat, shielding him without concern for his own safety.
Although severely injured, he continued moving the diplomat to a secure location while under sustained gunfire. His courage and determination under extreme conditions drew widespread praise during the ceremony.
Officials highlighted his conduct as an example of bravery and selfless service, noting that his actions had received appreciation at both national and international levels.
Several senior officers were also recognised with the Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military) for distinguished professional and national service.
Recipients included Air Marshal Kashif Qamar for exceptional performance, Air Marshal Aamir Shehzad for outstanding services and Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Aamir Hayat for professional contributions. Major General Muhammad Shahid Abro also received the award in recognition of his national services.
Other recipients included Major General Sibtain Rafiq, Rear Admiral Mazhar Mahmood Malik, Air Vice Marshal Rizwan Sadiq, Major General Muhammad Maqbool Raza and Air Vice Marshal Shahid Mansoor Jahangiri.
Further honours were conferred upon Air Vice Marshal Khalid Mahmood, Major General Aijaz Ahmad, Major General Malik Muhammad Shehzad, Major General Aamir Ashfaq Kiani and Air Vice Marshal Tahir Mahmood for distinguished contributions and valuable services.