Dhaka: Bangladesh Air Force Base at Kurmitola, Dhaka Cantonment, has been renamed 'Bangladesh Air Force Base Bir Uttam A K Khandker'. The renaming ceremony was held today at Kurmitola Air Force Base, Dhaka Cantonment, as stated in a release by the Directorate of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) this afternoon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chief of Air Staff of BAF Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan was present at the renaming ceremony as the chief guest. During his speech, he paid homage to the brave freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the independence of Bangladesh and acknowledged all the martyrs of the July-August uprising. He also honored Air Vice Marshal A K Khandker, Bir Uttam, for his fearless contributions during the Liberation War and his significant role in the nation's history, which led to the renaming of the base in his honor.
Air Vice Marshal A K Khandker, Bir Uttam was a prominent freedom fighter and a visionary leader who played a crucial role in establishing the Bangladesh Air Force. His dedication, strategic insight, and indomitable spirit during the 1971 liberation war have been a source of inspiration for the nation. As the Deputy Chief of Staff of 'Mukti Bahini', he was instrumental in coordinating efforts that led to victory in the liberation struggle. Following independence, he became the first Chief of Air Staff and successfully reorganized the war-torn Air Force under his leadership.
The ISPR highlighted that naming the base after Air Vice Marshal A K Khandker serves as an honor for his contributions to the establishment and development of the Bangladesh Air Force. For his bravery and patriotism during the great war of independence, he was awarded the gallantry award 'Bir Uttam' by the government of Bangladesh. In addition, he received the 'Independence Award-2011' in recognition of his outstanding role in the Liberation War, restructuring the Bangladesh Air Force, and nation-building.
The renaming ceremony was attended by family members of Air Vice Marshal A K Khandker, Bir Uttam, who were present as special guests. The event was also graced by the presence of Assistant Chiefs of Air Staff, Air Officer Commanding of Bangladesh Air Force Base Bir Uttam A K Khandker, senior military and civil officials, and other dignitaries.