Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) is the Military Academy of Pakistan Army. It is located at Kakul near Abbottabad in NWFP, Pakistan. The Pakistan Military Academy is similar in function to Sandhurst, Saint-Cyr or West Point and provides training to the officers of Pakistan Army. The academy has three training battalions and twelve companies. Due to the very high training standards at PMA, cadets of more than 34 countries come here every year as part of their military training schedules.
December 25th, 2014: A smartly turned out contingent of gentlemen Cadets from the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA), Kakul, mounted ceremonial guard at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam today as a part of celebration to mark the Father of the nation's 138th birth anniversary. The first passing out parade of PMA was held on 25th December, 1948. It was reviewed by the then Governor General of Pakistan, Khawaja Nazimuddin, who presented the Quaid-e-Azam Banner to the champion company. The Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul, has the singular honour of being the only military institution designated as 'Quaid-e-Azam's Own' by the Father of the Nation himself. He was the first and only Colonel-in-Chief of the Academy.
Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul - October 18, 2014: COAS Address On The Occasion of PMA Passing Out Parade 18 Oct 2014 Bismillah Ir Rahman Nir Rahim, Commandant Pakistan Military Academy, Graduating Cadets, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Assalam-O-Alikum
Dear Cadets, It is a matter of great honour for me to review this historic passing out parade with a record number of over 1200 passing out cadets including 45 cadets from friendly countries. The immaculate turn out and outstanding drill displayed in today’s parade is reflective of the high standards of Pakistan Military Academy. I congratulate each one of you for successfully completing your training from Pakistan Military Academy which stands out as one of the premier institutions of the world. My special felicitations to the families and the award winners. Indeed, it is a landmark day in your lives and I am proud to be part of the moment. Dear Cadets, The rapidly changing geopolitical environment and globally asserting no-state actors have put Pakistan in the centre stage. In its wake it has brought numerous challenges and opportunities for Pakistan. This has put enormous burden of responsibility and deliverance on Pakistan Army. Shying away from adversities is not in our nature, we have resolved to face these squarely, as this is the surest route to success. Dear Cadets, it is your proud privilege to join Pakistan Army at a time when you can play your part in shaping the course of history. Army is truly a symbol of national unity and hope – thriving on the aspirations of the people of Pakistan. This has given us our character manifested in our professional ethos, courage, unflinching commitment and battle readiness. You are about to embark upon an exciting yet daunting journey. The virtues of honour, integrity and selfless devotion that this prestigious institution has instilled in you will shape and govern every single day of your life. Henceforth, while leading the finest combat soldiers in the world, your personal self would be your last priority. Today, you have taken the sacred oath that whatever may be the cost you would always measure up to the expectations of the devoted people who hold you in high esteem and firmly stand behind you. Ladies and Gentlemen, By the Grace of Allah Almighty, Pakistan Army today is highly experienced and battle hardened. May it be external aggression, internal security, national building tasks or natural calamities such as floods and earthquakes; we have always lived up to the expectations of the nation. Our officers lead from the front. This is our professional culture and proud tradition which is adequately reflected in our fight against terrorism; during which over four thousand officers and men have made the supreme sacrifice. My dear cadets, now the Army reposes trust in you to carry forward this tradition. Ladies and Gentlemen, Zarb-e-Azb is not merely an operation, it is a concept, it is a resolve and a commitment of the nation. The commitment is to cleanse Pakistan of the scourge of terrorism once and for all. Pakistan Army is the cutting-edge of this resolve. A resolve that is currently evident in North Waziristan, where the military Operations are delivering decisive results. Pakistan’s Law Enforcement Agencies aided by Intelligence Agencies are also playing a commendable role in hunting down terrorists and their networks across the country. In view of the successes we are achieving the displaced people of FATA will be able to return to their homes sooner than expected. On their return a new life of peace and prosperity shall Insha Allah take root. Nonetheless, in order to bring about lasting peace in FATA and the country at large, cohesive, dedicated and timely involvement of all stake holders and state institutions is essential. Alhamdolilah, Pakistan Army is fully capable of deterring and defeating aggression across the entire spectrum of threat. Yet, we persistently seek peace in the region and beyond. This quest for peace is our nation’s greatest strength. We desire regional stability and relationship based on equality and mutual respect. Sentiments of goodwill and amity notwithstanding, let there be no doubt that any aggression against our beloved country will get a befitting response and no sacrifice will be too great in this sacred cause. Ladies and Gentlemen, Lasting peace in the region will only come about with the fair and just resolution of Kashmir issue; in accordance with the will of Kashmiri people as enshrined in the UN resolutions. Coercion and repression of the Kashmiri people will never shake their confidence to ultimately exercise their freedom of choice promised by the international community. It is our firm belief that the determination of our Kashmiri brethren and collective conscience of free world will bear fruit and their aspirations will eventually be realized. Ladies and Gentlemen, We sincerely pray that the new political dispensation in Afghanistan brings peace, stability and prosperity to the people of Afghanistan and the region at large. Pakistan Army in its capacity will do all that is necessary to support the Afghan Security Forces in every possible manner. Like all devoted Pakistanis we want our country to prosper and earn its rightful place in the comity of nation, in line with the vision of our great Quaid, Muhammd Ali Jinnah. It is a proved fact that the surest way of realizing this dream is through unequivocal commitment to true democratic values and rule of law. We stand for these virtues in letter and spirit and any reservations about our intent are not only misplaced but also detrimental for the country. Dear Cadets, It is my proud privilege to entrust upon you the mantle of junior but very important leadership of Pakistan Army. May Allah Almighty grant you strength and wisdom to serve our country with dignity and honour. May Allah be your guide and protector! Ameen! Pakistan Army Zindabad Pakistan Paindabad
COAS General Raheel Shafif, awarding sword of honour to cadet Shazif of 130 PMA L/C at the passing out parade held at PMA on Saturday.
General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, chief of army staff reviewing passing out parade at PMA kakul on saturday 12 October 2013
KAKUL (Abbottabad), Oct 12: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani said on Saturday that the army fully supported the dialogue process initiated by the national leadership to tackle the menace of terrorism. Addressing the passing out parade of 128th Long Course here at the Pakistan Military Academy, he said that terrorism was a big challenge, and the national leadership and the nation had to decide ways and means of the dialogue process, which were becoming more clear with the process moving ahead. The army chief said that it was imperative that the dialogue process should forge unity among the nation instead of creating any division and it must be within the constitutional parameters. He said that the impression that the course of dialogue had been adopted after the failure of military operations, was totally wrong. The Pakistan Army has given matchless sacrifices in the war against terrorism and achieved major successes against the menace, he added. General Kayani said that the use of power would be the last resort. “If needed, the army is fully prepared for its effective use. There is no confusion among the army to understand and play its role in both the situations.” Pakistan, he said, was passing through a critical and difficult phase and the military leadership must play its role for strengthening of the democratic system. The entire nation has to play its role for the resolution of the country’s problems, he added. Terming terrorism a big challenge for the nation, he said it was not only contrary to the country’s ideology but also the teachings of Islam. Gen Kayani said that the Pakistan Army had played its role against terrorism in a very difficult situation. “We should rememberthose days when armed groups were just 100 kilometers away from Islamabad. When men and women were being slaughtered in the Bazaars and the Green Chowk of Mingora was called as a “Khooni Chowk”. Roads were deserted while business, houses, economy went into the hands of criminals.” In these situations, the efforts and sacrifices rendered by the Pakistan Army have no parallel in the present war history, he added. Quoting the example of Swat to understand the reality, he said that more than two million people were made homeless but the army took them back to their houses. “We purged Swat of the militants through a swift and effective military operation and two million people returned to their homes in four months. Today there is complete peace in Swat and the people of Swat are witness to this reality,” he added.The army chief said that due to lack of coordination among institutions, the state system could not be evolved properly. Due to economic imbalance, the rich became richer and the poor poorer while weak governance system and intolerance agravated the situation further, he added. “We should accept that neither any particular person nor any segment of the society has a remedy for the problems. We should also accept that these problems cannot be resolved in a few months or years.” He said that the entire nation would have to play its due role while the national leadership would have to show it the right direction. “We will have to stick to this path.” This can only be made possible if there is harmony among different state organs, he said and added that the country had already suffered and could not suffer more. Gen Kayani stressed the need of further improving civil and military relations. He said it was imperative for the military leadership to continue working for strengthening the democratic system in the country. For the purpose, more confidence among the state institutions was needed. “This process has started and it should continue in future,” he added. He pointed out that the confidence and relations among state institutions anywhere in the world were not exemplary. He said that some mistakes were committed during the process of governing system’s evolution elsewhere in the world and same was the case in Pakistan also. But the society has a key role to correct these mistakes through constructive criticism, he added. “If there is an insult in the criticism, the institutions instead of taking corrective measures, involve in fighting and become weak or stop performing. Therefore, there should be a positive criticism,” he said. Pakistan, he said, would develop when its institutions would become strong. He was happy that the society not only understood that but had also made good progress during the last few years in that regard. He said learning lessons from past mistakes was a must for bright future. “But totally ignoring successes makes the people despair. We should not forget that we had struggled for the country’s development against all odds and mistakes,” he added. General Kayani said the efforts culminated in the present democratic system, which was the central point of the Constitution made with a national consensus. He said all the political parties had accepted the results of 2008 general election. For the first time in the country’s history, a democratic government completed its term and transferred the power to the new elected one. He said after 1970 election, the people in large numbers voted in the 2013 general election. “Now there are elected governments at the Center and in the provinces. We are now standing with democratic nations.” He said the armed forces also fulfilled their constitutional obligations.It was difficult to maintain law and order during the elections. But the Pakistan Army along with other institutions was able to create a conducive atmosphere for polls. During the last two elections, a foundation for a democratic Pakistan has been laid and now the present and coming generations should build a building over it, he added. He said,”Now we have left behind a bitter past when the nation had to undergo various experiences. Today the nation’s fate and destiny is in the hands of its own leadership. This success is a proper reply to those, who are spreading rumours about the country’s future.” He said that Pakistan’s ideology was based on democracy. The elements, who were busy in working against the deology, should understand that the country’s future was linked with democracy. On the basis of that ideology, Pakistan’s creation was a history. It came into being in the name of Islam, which reflected the best democratic thoughts, he added. He said that the Founder of Pakistan while addressing the Constituent Assembly, had set the direction for the countrymen. “All the people enjoy equal rights in an Islamic welfare state. Any negative approach, which hampers basic democratic rights, has no place in our national life. People’s welfare, tolerance, and acceptance of the Constitution can make the democratic system a complete success,” he added. Citing examples of success in the war against terrorism, the army chief said that besides Swat, South Waziristan, Aurakzai, Muhmand, Bajaur, Dir and recently Tirah valley were freed from the terrorists and extremists. “We are proud of restoring the writ of state over 37,000 square kilometer area. The successes were achieved through the blood of thousands of Shuhada and Ghazis and creating confusion in this regard will be a disrespect to them. It is not difficult to gauge that what will have been happening today without these successes,” he added. “Had we not been able to take benefit of these successes fully, then we should not at least repeat these mistakes in future,” he added. He said that there was no price for sacrificing a life and no one was demanding the same. “But we are much ahead of those respectable societies, which give respect to those, who lay down their lives for the country.” That was why, Pakistani officers and soldiers did not undergo any stress despite passing through a very difficult situation. They were performing the sacred duty for the country’s defence without any pressure, he added. He said that in the developed countries, the soldiers after returning from the battlefield, suffered from mental stress and had a tendency of committing suicide. There was not even a single example cited in case of Pakistan Army. Pakistan, he said, was passing through a difficult and critical phase. “Nations have to undergo such situations, but those, who accept them as a challenge, become stronger ones.” He admitted that mistakes had been committed. But at the same time certainly some good things had also been done and because of which Pakistan was a sovereign and strong country today, he added. General Kayani said that with one university and a few colleges in 1947, the literacy rate in the country was around 12 per cent. Likewise in the industrial field, there were 34 factories while the per capita income was less than 100 dollars at that time. He said that there were no state organizations and the Pakistan Army consisted of mere few thousand personnel. Tanks could have been counted at fingers. The Air Force and the Navy were also facing similar situation. He said Pakistan made the beginning with a weak financial, industrial and educational system and due to that reason, several critics had thought maintaining independence would be difficult for the new country. But hats off to the nation, who faced every difficulty and made the country a success story, he added. He said after passage of 66 years, today Pakistan was the sixth most populated country and the fourth one having the most agriculture and livestock production. There are now factories and industries set up throughout the country, he added. “Today we have 186 universities and thousands of colleges while our per capita income is over 1300 dollars. We are the seventh largest army and the only nuclear power in the Muslim world,” he added. “We would have been in a better position, had we not committed mistakes. We have forgotten the golden principles of the Father of Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah i,e., Unity, Faith and Discipline. We did not prefer the welfare of the masses. As a result, the dream of Pakistan being a welfare state has not been fully materialized.”Gen Kayani chief said that the army had achieved all its successes in its limited sources. Despite a jugglery of the figures, the allocations for armed forces were 18 per cent of the national budget “We understand that the real national security lies in prosperous and confident people. Pakistan will only be safe against foreign aggression when the entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with army men.” It will only be possible when the country’s economy is strong as internally weak nations cannot meet the external challenges, he added. “Our defence ideology is based on prosperous people and the best military capability. Today, the army is a symbol of the country’s integrity and solidarity. Pakistan is our destiny and we will leave no stone unturned to make it more developed and prosperous.” He said that the Pakistan Military Academy had a special place among the world’s military academies. The army chief said that he was standing at a place from where he started his journey in 1969. “And what I have achieved during 44 years is bestowed upon me by the country.” “After getting close to the end of long journey, I can say that the country’s sovereignty is a guarantee of our development and that of of the coming generations. From today, you (cadets) are guarantors of the country’s sovereignty,” he added. He congratulated the parents of cadets, who were commissioned on Saturday. He also felicitated the cadets of Islamic and friendly countries, including Palestine, Bahrain and Nepal, who were also commissioned.
PMA KAKUL (Abbottabad), Aug 14, 2013: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has called for creating a national consensus against terrorism and stressed for a swift implementation of strategy made to root out this menace.Addressing at Azadi Parade here Tuesday night, he said there could be two opinions regarding making a strategy to fight terrorism, but to bow before this curse was not a solution. He said that Pakistan Armed Forces have rendered sacrifices to overcome terrorism and even today they are standing shoulder to shoulder with the nation. The COAS said that this war could only be won when the entire nation would unite on one strategy, so that there would no confusion in the mind of forces as well as the terrorists.
As a nation we were not failed neither we would fail for which we need blessings of Allah Almighty, he said adding those who were creating confusion regarding future of Pakistan were actually unable to understand the resolve and spirit of Pakistani nation.
It is imperative that we think and understand by putting aside all religious, linguistic and regional differences to make our path easy, he added.
The COAS made it clear that terrorists would never succeed in their nefarious designs because the nation had been facing this menace for the last 10 years without any fear, adding terrorists could not succeed against such a brave nation.
He gave the example of the entire nation which cast votes during general elections despite severe threats.
Gen Kayani said that efforts of one or some institutions would not be sufficient to effectively overcome terrorism, but each and every institution along with the entire society would have to strive against it.
It would not be possible to overcome these threats unless the entire nation is united and on one page against it, he added.
He reminded that the national interest would be the first priority adding, we should not forget that independence was a gift and there were some responsibilities to maintain it.
Gen Kayani said that individual benefits should not be allowed to negate national interests and we all should think about the welfare of the country and the nation. The COAS said that all the countrymen were fully aware of the importance of Independence Day adding, the creation of Pakistan was not a coincidence but it was fruit of the spirit and continuous struggle of our forefathers.
He said that objective behind creation of Pakistan was not only to get a piece of land but to establish such a welfare state and a society based on golden Islamic principles, where not only Muslims but minorities could also enjoy individual and religious freedom and that enjoy a unique and great place among the world nations.
The COAS asked the nation to come forward and vow to make Pakistan a welfare state and give our homeland a proper place among the comity of nations.
April 20, 2013, PMA Kakul, Abbotabad: Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani reviewed an impressive Passing out parade of 127th PMA Long Course, 46th Integrated Course and 1st Mujahid Course at Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul, as the chief guest today. He congratulated all the graduating cadets on successful completion of their basic military training, including those from our brotherly Islamic countries of Palestine, Sudan and Turkmenistan,, and felicitated their proud parents. He specially commended all the award winners. Salient quotes from his speech are:-
"this day marks the culmination of your basic military training at an Institution which stands out with distinction amongst the leading military academies of the world." "You will be fortunate to command the soldiers who are known for their unflinching loyalty and sense of sacrifice. Our soldiers are known for delivering best results in the most challenging environment."
"I am confident that Pakistan Military Academy, has instilled in you the highest standards of discipline, honour and integrity. It is your first and foremost responsibility to maintain these standards. Your life as commissioned officers in Pakistan Army will be challenging. It demands the best in professional skills and leadership qualities. I have full trust that you will never hesitate to always place your Country, Pak Army and your men before your own selves." "In our short history, we have overcome many a challenges that would have overwhelmed lesser nations. I am sure we can do it again. We are going through difficult times, but so has every other successful nation at some time in their history. Pak Army is fully committed to the cause and as always standing with the nation. I assure you that we will succeed if we remain committed to the basis for creation of Pakistan and remain steadfast as a nation."
" Let me remind you that Pakistan was created in the name of Islam and Islam can never ever be taken out of Pakistan. However, Islam should always remain a unifying force. I assure you that regardless of odds, Pakistan Army will keep on doing its best towards our common dream for a truly Islamic Republic of Pakistan envisioned by the Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal".
"Pakistan is a peace loving country. Our quest for peace is essentially based on a genuine desire to improve our lot and that of our future generations. Let no one see it as a weakness. We have exercised restraint in the face of some very belligerent statements in recent months. Let it suffice to say that Pakistan is fully capable of responding effectively to any threat. Despite our current focus on internal security, we remain fully prepared to defeat an external direct threat." "Let there be no doubt that with a strong Pak Army and the nation standing with it united, no harm can ever come to Pakistan, Inshallah."
A large number of senior serving and retired armed forces officers, parents of cadets, foreign diplomats and relatives of graduating cadets witnessed the spectacular parade.
Chief of Army Staff awarding coveted Sword of Honour to Battalion Senior Under Officer Awais Iftikhar from 127th PMA Long Course during Passing Out Parade held at Pakistan Military Academy Kakul on Saturday. (20-4-2013)
CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF GENERAL ASHFAQ PARVEZ KAYANI,NI(M),HI
ADDRESS
PRESIDENT’S PARADE
Major General Sadiq Ali, Commandant Pakistan Military Academy, Graduating Cadets of 127th PMA Long Course, Integrated Course 46, Mujahid Course-1, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen! Assalam-o-Alaikum! I feel honoured and privileged to review the Passing Out Parade, today. This day marks the culmination of your basic military training at an Institution which stands out with distinction amongst the leading military academies of the world. My heartiest felicitations to you for becoming part of the great institution that is Pakistan Army. I also congratulate the graduating cadets of our brotherly Islamic Countries; Palestine, Sudan and Turkmenistan. I also want to extend my felicitations to your proud parents. I appreciate the efforts of your trainers at PMA who have helped mould you as future leaders of Pak Army. Let me also extend my special commendations to the Champion Company and those who have won awards of excellence. Dear Cadets! I am confident that Pakistan Military Academy has instilled in you the highest standards of discipline, honour and integrity. It is your first and foremost responsibility to maintain these standards. Your life as commissioned officers in Pakistan Army will be challenging. It demands the best in professional skills and leadership qualities. I have full trust that you will never hesitate to always place your Country, Pak Army and your men before your own selves. You will be fortunate to command the soldiers who are known for their unflinching loyalty and sense of sacrifice. Our soldiers are known for delivering best results in the most challenging environment. When you command these brave men, you will see why Pakistan Army enjoys the respect as a professional Army both inside as well as outside Pakistan. Never forget that the relationship and trust between our officers and the men is the bedrock of that reputation. During active operations, our officers have always upheld the proud tradition of leading from the front, regardless of the cost. I expect nothing less from you. In command you will be vested with authority. However, never forget that in the profession of Arms, you never make a good commander unless you are a good leader as well. I would like you to be good commanders and inspiring leaders as well. It requires both professional competence and character. Always remember that it is the character which makes command an honour, and not just another job. Dear Cadets! Never forget that you have become part of an institution where nothing else but your own merit will be the sole consideration for career progression. Be ambitious. There is nothing wrong with it, but the only way to achieve your ambitions is through hard work. There is no shortcut to it. Do have a dream and always aim high. I urge you to take pride in excellence in whatever you do, as this is the best source of personal satisfaction. Ladies and Gentlemen! In our short history, we have overcome many a challenges that would have overwhelmed lesser nations. I am sure we can do it again. We are going through difficult times, but so has every other successful nation at some time in their history. Pak Army is fully committed to the cause and as always standing with the nation. I assure you that we will succeed if we remain committed to the basis for creation of Pakistan and remain steadfast as a nation. Let me remind you that Pakistan was created in the name of Islam and Islam can never ever be taken out of Pakistan. However, Islam should always remain a unifying force. I assure you that regardless of odds, Pakistan Army will keep on doing its best towards our common dream for a truly Islamic Republic of Pakistan envisioned by the Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal. Ladies and Gentlemen! Pakistan is a peace loving country. Our quest for peace is essentially based on a genuine desire to improve our lot and that of our future generations. Let no one see it as a weakness. We have exercised restraint in the face of some very belligerent statements in recent months. Let it suffice to say that Pakistan is fully capable of responding effectively to any threat. Despite our current focus on internal security, we remain fully prepared to defeat an external direct threat.
Let there be no doubt that with a strong Pak Army and the nation standing with it united, no harm can ever come to Pakistan. Insha Allah.
Dear Cadets!
I conclude by welcoming you to the officers’ Corps of the Pakistan Army, and earnestly pray for your bright future. May Allah help you serve your Country and the Nation with the highest sense of loyalty, commitment and selflessness! Ameen!
Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, General Khalid Shameem Wynne, awarding coveted Sword of Honour to best cadet of 126 PMA Long Course, Academy Senior Under Officer, Anees at Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul on Saturday (20-10-2012)
Kakul - October 20, 2012:
"During the past few years, we have witnessed rapid changes in the international environment resulting in a wave of internal instability in our country. We have been subjected to a new form of war with dangerous consequence for our liberty and independence. We must prove to the world that we are a resilient nation and cannot be undermined by extremists". General Khalid Shameem Wynne, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) made these assertions while addressing the Passing out Parade of 126 PMA long course. The Chairman highlighted that "we are living in an era of rapid technological advancement and future military leadership will find themselves at a loss if they fail to keep pace with evolving trends". The CJCSC while reviewing the Parade appreciated the standard of professionalism acquired by the graduating cadets, specially the immaculate turn out and exuberance in drill movements. Chairman while addressing the cadet officers said that "Pakistan is a peace loving country and we want to promote international peace as it is an assurance of our own internal stability. Our brave officers and soldiers have given their best in the line of duty to ensure the defence of motherland. I am confident that this trust has been reposed in able hands and you will become a mark of pride for your nation".
Chairman congratulated the parents of cadets and the Faculty for achieving traditional bench marks of excellence in molding young men into able and impeccable officers of Pakistan Army. The Sword of Honour for the overall best cadet was awarded to Academy Senior Under Officer Anees, the President Gold Medal was awarded to Battalion Senior Under Officer Jalal, Chief of Army Staff’s Overseas Gold Medal was awarded to Allied Under Officer Osama and Chief of Army Staff Cane was awarded to Course Senior Under Officer Tariq. Earlier on his arrival at PMA Chairman was received by Major General Sadiq Ali, Commandant Pakistan Military Academy. The commissioning parade constituted the 126 PMA Long Course, 24 Technical Graduate Course, 45 Integrated Course, 10th Lady Cadet Course along with a number of allied cadets from friendly countries of Palestine and Sudan.
Kakul - April 21, 2012: Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Mohammad Asif Sandila was the Chief Guest on Passing Out Parade ceremony of 125th PMA Long Course and Integrated Course-44 at PMA Kakul, today. “It is indeed a matter of immense pleasure and great privilege for me to review your passing out parade. I congratulate you on this marvelous accomplishment and convey my heartiest felicitations to your parents, families and the faculty, who contributed to your great achievement through their sincere commitment and guidance. I extend my appreciation to those who have won distinction and have been awarded for their commendable performance. I specially congratulate the cadets from Palestine and Sudan on successfully completing their training at this premier institution”, he said, while addressing the gathering, where a large number of civil and military officials were present. “Pakistan Military Academy, which is rightfully considered a cherished institution, brings remarkable changes in its cadets transforming them into responsible leaders. It imbibes esteemed values among its cadets. The standards set here must serve you as the yardstick in your future professional pursuits”. He added that “Your immaculate turnout and grandiose parade marked by precise drill movements speak volumes of the high standards of your training. Your proud bearing is reflective of the uncompromising standards pursued at this great institution. I would like to commend the efforts of your faculty, instructors and all those who have made this day memorable for you. I hope and pray that this quest for excellence will become a permanent feature of your personality throughout your life. Becoming a member of corps of officers in Pakistan Army is no doubt a matter of great pride. But at the same time, this is just the beginning of a long, eventful and challenging voyage filled with every kind of ordeals. By now you have been equipped with the basic training in professional field and a solid foundation is laid, upon which you can build your career and face the challenges of a demanding profession. Be a symbol of valour and steadfastness for your men and lead them by setting your personal example. That is why you must demonstrate strength of character, comradeship, courage and competence in concrete way”. Furthermore he said that “Today the nature and dimensions of threat to our national security has broadened manifolds. We are not just faced with a standing foreign adversary but re also confronted with an amorphous and violent enemy, which is bent upon foisting its own ideology of hate and bigotry upon us. We are thus faced with unprecedented challenges to our national security on both domestic and foreign fronts for which the Armed Forces are expected to maintain unflinching vigil at all times and at all costs. On the other hand, the art and gadgetry of warfare are prone to swift changes and progress in technology. The concepts and doctrines of warfare do also change radically in accordance with the progress in hardware. It is thus imperative that you always keep yourselves updated on all developments occurring in the world; this will enhance your professional competence and confidence. You have to strive consistently to remain alert to these changes and absorb them in your training programmes for the assimilation of your under command. The perpetual pursuance in this regard is bound to give you confidence and self-assurance which are considered hallmarks of any effective leader. So you are required to follow warily the latest developments in technologies and trends in the military field and be able to assess their implications in both national and international perspectives. This is a tough proposition for which I would exhort upon you to strictly focus yourself on professional affairs and do not squander your energies and time on nonprofessional matters. Resist any temptation that may distract you from your main course and prepare yourself as a battle ready warrior”. He further added that “The nation pins very high expectations on you. I do hope that you will add new dimensions to the traditional concepts of command and leadership. You have become a member of an organization whose discipline and quality of work are worth emulating. I advise you to uphold those glorious traditions through the strength of your personal character, integrity and honour. I am sure you will always place service before self and at no cost let your personnel interest interfere with public duty. At the end of the ceremony The Sword of Honour for the overall best cadet was awarded to Battalion Senior Under Officer Hassaan Ahmed Malik, The president Gold Medal for the overall second best cadet was awarded to Academy Senior Under Officer Mohsin Mustafa, The Chief of Army Staff’s Overseas Gold Medal for best Allied Cadet was awarded to Academy Under Officer Ahmed Mohammad Nimir Babo Nimir and The Commandant’s Cane for the best integrated Course cadet was awarded to Course Under Officer Abdul Rahim.
An impressive Passing out parade of 123rd PMA Long Course, Integrated Course 42nd and Lady Cadets Course 8th was held at Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul. Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani was the chief guest on the occasion.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani congratulated all the graduating cadets on successful completion of their basic military training. He during his address said that Pakistan Army is fully aware of internal and external threats to the country and will come upto the expectations of the nation. In the ongoing war against terrorism, our officers and soldiers have made great sacrifices and have achieved tremendous success.
COAS said that people of the country value their freedom and independence more than anything else and consider no sacrifice too great to preserve it. He called upon people to remain optimistic and keep the dream of strong and prosperous Pakistan alive. I have no doubt that all of us together can achieve it.
COAS further said that people have the capacity and will to do it, whatever the difficulties and challenges. Let us revive our promise to make Pakistan a strong country, worthy of its name and the aspiration of its people.
The Chief of Army Staff reiterated that this profession demands strong resolve and conviction. You can reach the zenith of glory by following the high standards of professionalism and valor set by your illustrious predecessors.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff reviewed the smartly turned out parade and awarded medals. The coveted Sword of Honour was awarded to Academy Senior Under Officer Abdul Malik from 123rd PMA Long Course, The President’s Gold Medal to Battalion Senior Under Officer Qazi Fasih Ud Din from 123rd PMA Long Course, the Chief of Army Staff Overseas Gold Medal to Allied Under Officer Tukakov Betyr Naryzbayewish from Kazakistan, the Commandant’s Cane for the best cadet of Integrated course 42nd was awarded to Course Under Rizwan Abdul Malik. The Commandant Cane for the best cadet of Lady Cadets’ Course 8th was awarded to Course Under Officer Ayesha Aslam.
Major General Mazhar Jamil, Commandant Pakistan Military Academy was also present on the saluting dais. A large number of senior serving and retired armed forces officers, parents of cadets, foreign diplomats and relatives of graduating cadets witnessed the spectacular parade.
Chief of Army Staff, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani awarding coveted Sword of Honour to Academy Senior Under Officer Abdul Malik from 123rd PMA Long Course during Passing Out Parade held at Pakistan Military Academy Kakul, Abbottabad on Saturday. (23-4-2011)
