Dhaka: President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus extended greetings to the members of the armed forces in anticipation of Armed Forces Day, to be celebrated in the country tomorrow. In his statement, President Shahabuddin paid tribute to the 1971 martyrs, with special recognition to the seven recipients of the prestigious "Bir Shreshtha" gallantry awards and the three million martyrs who laid down their lives for the liberation of the nation. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the President, who also serves as the supreme commander of the armed forces, expressed profound respect for the valiant members of the armed forces who sacrificed their lives during the liberation war and in various duties, both domestically and internationally. He prayed for the eternal peace of their souls and extended heartfelt sympathy to the families of the war-wounded and martyred armed forces personnel. The President emphasized that the armed forces, established through the liberation war, symbolize national pride and trust. He recalled the decisive joint attack launched by the three forces on November 21, 1971, which expedited the country's victory in the war for independence. He remarked that the armed forces play a crucial role in nation-building activities, supporting civil administration during natural disasters and national crises while safeguarding the country's independence and sovereignty. In his message, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus also paid homage to the martyrs of the armed forces and others who sacrificed their lives for Bangladesh's independence. He acknowledged the joint counter-attack launched by the Army, Navy, and Air Force on November 21 during the liberation war, which included participation from paramilitary forces and patriotic citizens. He highlighted the significance of Armed Forces Day, celebrated on November 21 each year, as a commemoration of the nation's progress and victory in the liberation war. Professor Yunus emphasized the armed forces as the people 's last resort during the independence struggle and natural disasters, noting their steadfast support during national crises. He expressed gratitude to the armed forces for their assistance to civil administration in various activities, including managing student-labor-mass uprisings, handling flood situations, providing security in industrial areas, improving law and order, and recovering weapons. Both leaders expressed hope that the armed forces will continue to collaborate with the people to protect the nation's independence and sovereignty. The Chief Adviser conveyed his best wishes for the success of the programmes organized for 'Armed Forces Day 2024'.
