ISLAMABAD - Pakistan Navy on Sunday celebrated 55th anniversary of Defence Day of Pakistan with reverence and effervescent spirit. The day was observed to commemorate supreme sacrifices of the Armed Forces, martyrs, ghazis and national heroes who stood against the enemy with unparalleled display of unity and tenacity during the 1965 Indo-Pak War, said a press release received here yesterday. In his message on the occasion, Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi paid homage to the martyrs and ghazis who remained undeterred by the size of the enemy and foiled its nefarious designs with grit, courage and honour. On this day, nation acknowledges sacrifices of its gallant and resilient soldiers, sailors and airmen who defended the ideological and geographical frontiers of their motherland. The Naval Chief reiterated that the Pakistan Navy is fully capable and prepared to give a befitting response to any misadventure by the enemy across the entire spectrum of maritime threat. The Admiral urged that this day being a symbol of courage, resolve, sacrifice and national integrity demands a pledge to work selflessly and to adhere resolutely to the Quaid’s great principles by anchoring strong faith in Allah Almighty. The day dawned with special prayers offered in all naval mosques for preservation of integrity and sovereignty of Pakistan. Quran Khawani was held for interminable peace of martyrs of the 1965 war. Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi laid floral wreath at Shuhada’s Monument at the Naval Headquarters Islamabad, interacted with the families of Shuhada and offered Fateha. Wreath-laying ceremonies and Fateha Khawani were also held at Shuhada’s memorials at the Field Command Headquarters. Flag-hoisting ceremonies were held at all naval units and establishments where Commanding Officers of all units and establishments addressed special gatherings of officers and men and highlighted significance of the day. All ships and establishments were decorated and illuminated in accordance with the naval traditions. Other activities of the day included various colourful sports activities and Defence Day fishing boats rallies/ races at Gwadar and Creeks area, says the press release.