Gen Asim Munir elevated as Field Marshal
ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet on Tuesday decided to promote Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir as Field Marshal, just over a week after Pakistan managed to thwart Indian aggression.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired the meeting, as the participants also unanimously decided that Air Chief Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu would continue serving after his retirement. It means his tenure has been extended.
At the same time, the martyrs and ghazis, including the civilians, of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos would also receive awards in recognition of their significant contributions.
It means the army chief has become the second person in Pakistan to assume the role of Field Marshal. The only previous example in the country was Field Marshal Ayub Khan. He also served as the President of Pakistan.
Reacting to the move, Field Marshal Asim Munir said he was thankful to Almighty Allah for bestowing the honour.
He dedicated the honour to the entire nation, armed forces and martyred soldiers as well as their families.
The army chief remarked that “millions of Asim” could be sacrificed to fulfil the responsibilities associated with his elevation.
EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP
Earlier, Shehbaz met President Asif Zardari and took him into confidence over the issue.
The federal cabinet noted that the nation went through a difficult period in recent weeks – a reference to the Indian aggression.
India imposed an unjustified war without any provocation on the night between May 6 and 7, during which children and women were targeted, the cabinet said.
The entire episode, it was noted, was an attempt trample upon the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan.
In this scenario, it said the army chief led the military in an exemplary fashion and with dedication during the recent conflict with India, effectively coordinating the armed forces’ military strategy and operations.
WHAT IS A FIELD MARSHAL?
A Field Marshal is the highest military rank, which represents a five-star rank. It’s senior to general officer ranks and typically signifies a commander of exceptional merit or a figure of national significance. While the rank is often honorary and doesn’t necessarily grant additional powers, it is a recognition of a person’s distinguished military service and leadership.