The BAF is going to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its founding on 28 September in 2021.
Liberation War Affairs Minister A K M Mozammel Haque formally inaugurated the countdown ceremony as the chief guest and he also unveiled two commemorative stamps at that time, says a Inter Service Public Relation (ISPR) Press Release.
Earlier, on the arrival of the Chief Guest at the venue, Chief of Air Staff of the BAF Air Chief Marshal Masihuzzaman Serniabat welcomed him.
It may be mentioned that the BAF will carry out various activities throughout the year to celebrate the Golden Jubilee through this countdown program.
The chief guest paid homage to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at the beginning of his speech. He also paid his deepest respects to all the martyrs of the liberation war including Bir Sreshto Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman.
He also prayed for the salvation of their departed souls and conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family members of the martyrs.
He added that the initiative taken by the Bangladesh Air Force to implement various programs throughout the year to celebrate the Golden Jubilee would undoubtedly inspire the new generation with the spirit of the liberation war.
Mentionable that, responding to the call of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh MujiburRahman, the heroic freedom fighters of the Air Force left the Pakistan Air Force and participated in the liberation war in 1971. In addition to participating in the frontline, Air Force officers also successfully performed the tasks of Sector Commanders. During dreadful days of the blood shedding war of liberation, the necessity of Air Force was seriously felt.
Bangladesh Air Force started its indomitable journey at Dimapur in India on 28 September in 1971 as ‘Kilo Flight’ with one Otter aircraft, one Dakota aircraft and one Allouette helicopter.
A total of 57 members were in Kilo Flight including Bengali pilots, technicians of the then Pakistan Air Force and the aviators of Pakistan International Airlines. Kilo Flight played a vital role in accelerating our victory by conducting 50 air operations successfully during the liberation war.
The contribution, sacrifice, spirit of independence and patriotism of the members of Bangladesh Air Force in the liberation war were highlighted in the ceremony. Documentary films based on the establishment of Bangladesh Air Force 'Kilo Flight' and the heroic contribution of Bir Sreshto Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman in liberation war named ‘Bir Sreshto Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman’ were screened at that time.
A pleasant cultural program was also arranged on the occasion. Among others, Principal Staff Officers of Air Headquarters, invited guests and senior military and civil officials including Kilo Flight veterans were present in the ceremony.
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