Pakistan Honors Its Heroes on Defence Day, September 6

September 1965: Unifying Legacy of Courage

By: Prof. Imran Ismail Chohan, M.Phil. (Applied Linguistics)

September 6, 2025; Mirpur AJK, Pakistan — Pakistan celebrates Defense Day with honor, recalling the great bravery of its military during the 1965 conflict. Operation Gibraltar, a courageous effort to assist the Kashmiri people against Indian invasion and to bring the world’s attention to their right of self-determination, was at the middle of that battle.

As members of the Gibraltar Force, trained Pakistani troops entered Indian-held Jammu & Kashmir in July 1965. Their objectives were to confuse the enemy, break their supply lines, and inspire local resistance. Though the operation had problems, it showed Pakistan’s determination to consistently support the people of Kashmir.

India crossed the international border and struck Lahore and Sialkot on September 6, 1965, responding. This aggressive act changed a secret operation into a full-scale war. Still, Pakistan’s Army and Air Force fought with unparalleled bravery to protect the nation even when outnumbered. The tank battle of Chawinda, the defense of Lahore, and the valor of regular people evolved into enduring symbols of national strength.

All the country was unified. Civilians gave blood, worked in hospitals, and sang patriotic tunes that raised the spirits of troops stationed at the front. Striking Indian targets precisely, the Pakistan Navy also contributed.

Even if Operation Gibraltar did not completely meet its political goals, it became a symbol of courage, unity, and sacrifice. Then-Army General Mohammad Musa Chief said, “India could not quell Pakistan despite its numerical superiority. Our men fought like lions.

“Pakistan pays respect on this Defense Day to the dead and veterans of 1965. Their sacrifices serve as a reminder that this country, united under its military, will always protect its territory and support the cause of Kashmir.

Imran Ismail, Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

Email: Imranismail955@gmail.com

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