A ceremony was held in Lahore to honor Major Sarmas Rauf Shaheed, a Christian soldier awarded the Tamgha-e-Basalat, on Defence Day. The event was attended by the martyr's family, Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, and Bishop of Lahore Kamran Nadeem.
Interfaith leaders joined to pay homage to national martyrs, demonstrating inter-religious harmony. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to national defense and unity. Minister Arora emphasized the importance of a secure Pakistan for a strong nation.
Students performed the national anthem and patriotic songs. The ceremony highlighted Major Rauf's military career, which began on September 11, 1987. He served in the 44 Frontier Force Regiment and as Wing Commander with Bajaur Scouts.
Major Rauf was martyred on September 13, 2007, during a search operation in South Waziristan. He was posthumously awarded the Tamgha-e-Basalat for his bravery and professional expertise.
The event underscored the Christian community's contributions to Pakistan's defense.
