Armed Forces Day celebrated

AFD - Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina taking salute of chiefs of Army, Navy and Airforce from the Armed Forces Day reception virtually from Ganabhaban on Sunday. Photo - PID

The day was celebrated this year maintaining social distancing, health guidelines

Dhaka, Nov 21 – The Armed Forces Day was celebrated across the country on Saturday, marking the establishment of the Bangladesh military during the Liberation War.

The day was observed maintaining social distancing and health guidelines amid the Covid-19 outbreak.

Bangladesh Armed Forces – comprising army, navy, and air force – were united on this day in 1971, marking its establishment as a professional fighting force.

As the members of the Bangladesh army, navy, and air force officially united, they launched an all-out attack on the Pakistani forces.

The day has been marked as the Armed Forces Day every year since the country's independence.

Chiefs of the three services paid a joint visit to President Abdul Hamid at Bangabhaban in observance of the day.

Meanwhile, programs were held at all army garrisons, naval ships and establishments, and air force bases throughout the country.

Three service chiefs of the country's Armed Forces on Saturday paid a joint visit to President Abdul Hamid at Bangabhaban, on the occasion of Armed Forces Day.

President's press secretary Joynal Abedin said that Chief of Army Staff General Aziz Ahmed, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Shaheen Iqbal and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Masihuzzaman Serniabat were there to mark the day in 1971 when the members of the Bangladesh army, navy and air force were officially united, in effect marking their establishment as professional fighting forces.

It led to joint operations along with the people against the Pakistani occupation forces, eventually leading to Victory Day some weeks later.

During today's meeting, they briefed the President on the overall activities of the Army, Navy and Air Force. 

The Chiefs of the three services also apprised the President of their ongoing activities, including raising awareness against Corona.

President Abdul Hamid also congratulated the members of the Armed Forces on the occasion. 

Highlighting the contribution of the Armed Forces in the Great Liberation War, President Hamid said besides contributing to the development of the country, the members of the Armed Forces are also brightening the image of Bangladesh abroad through their activities. 

Appreciating the role of the Armed Forces in dealing with Corona, the President hoped that their efforts would continue in the future as well.

Later, the President signed the inspection book on the occasion of Armed Forces Day.

Secretary to the President's Office Sampad Barua, Military Secretary Major General SM Shamim Uz Zaman, Press Secretary to the President Md. Joynal Abedin and Secretary (Joint) Md. Wahidul Islam Khan were present on the occasion. - UNB