In the chronicles of Pakistani history, there are some days which are great milestones of courage, solidarity, and bravery. Youm-e-Tashakkur (the Day of Gratitude) was not only a symbolic day; it was a sincere tribute of a thankful nation to the courageous sons of the soil who guard our frontiers, protect our liberty, and maintain the prestige of our green and white banner.
In the aftermath of the recent war between India and Pakistan, this year’s Youm-e-Tashakkur is all the more meaningful and charged with emotion.
For decades, our military forces have stood as the shield against domestic threats and external aggression. However, over the past few months, they made the world remember again why the Pakistan Army ranks among the world’s greatest fighting forces.
As tensions mounted along both sides of the Line of Control and diplomatic measures proved unable to halt the growing tide of enmity, our troops stood firm—unfazed, disciplined, and unyielding.
The recent war with India, ignited by cross-border hostilities and false-flag attacks, rapidly escalated.
The aggressor underestimating the determination of Pakistan’s military command and the cohesion of its citizens.
That resulted in a breathtaking exhibition of strategic acumen, operational excellence, and unshakable morale. Pakistan defended itself not just—it retaliated with precision, honor, and force.
From air dominance to ground resistance, our warriors displayed a synergy that unsettled bullies and comforted the Pakistani masses.
Pakistan’s war doctrine has never been aggression but defense, deterrence, and dignity. The last war was another exercise of this principle.
Even in the face of provocation, the Pakistan Army’s posture was one of strategic restraint. But when the red lines were violated, the response was prompt and firm. Indian intrusions were turned back, and several high-value targets eliminated without causing collateral damage—highlighting the professionalism and moral discipline of our troops.
On Youm-e-Tashakkur, we are not only remembering the soldiers who fought valiantly on frontlines, but also those serving in silence—in intel companies, cyber warfare, medics, and support networks. We celebrate the martyrs who accepted martyrdom so that we could live in freedom. Their blood, spilled on white mountains and burning desert borders, has turned into the ink of our national honor.
This day is also an opportunity for the civilian population to introspect. During war and crises, it is the solidarity between civilians and the armed forces that gives a nation its backbone.
From Gilgit to Gwadar, Lahore to Larkana, Pakistanis rallied behind each other—praying, helping, giving, and countering psychological warfare launched by aggressive media networks. The feeling of unity which has been built up against aggression is probably the strongest message to our adversaries: Pakistan is not merely guarded by troops; it is guarded by its people.
It is necessary, particularly for our youth, to realize that freedom they enjoy was not easily given. It was brought through the sacrifices of generations of soldiers who never shrank from putting duty ahead of self. Youm-e-Tashakkur is a reminder that patriotism is not a slogan—its a responsibility.
As we hoist our flags and pray with gratitude this Youm-e-Tashakkur, let us also commit to building our nation from within. Let us stand behind our armed forces not just in war but in peace as well—by being good citizens, abiding by the law, respecting our institutions, and working day and night for the betterment of Pakistan.
The war might be over, but the struggle for progress, stability, and respect will go on. With the Pakistan Army protecting us and unity being our strength, we will never be broken.
Long Live-Pakistan, Long Live –armed forces.
