Eid, the festival of happiness, family reunion, and celebrations, is a unique moment, which is full of delight. After a month of fasting in Ramadan, Eid heralds’ happy thankful moments when people plan a feast, distribute gifts and make treasured memories. Concurrently, it is an occasion to share the spirit of festivity and goodwill with the people who are away on duty round-the-clock, safeguarding the countries’ borders without any rest while missing their families. These are the valiant soldiers of the Pakistan Armed Forces.
While the nation celebrates Eid-ul-Fitr with traditional jerks of fun, the routine of the day usually remains the same for soldiers, who start their work in their squads and bases. While celebrating Eid may not be a high priority for these daring gentlemen, their devotion to the principles and defence of the country; however, remains unwavering. In respective places and times, “Eid” receives a different shade, when the boot beat is heard and a crispy salute is delivered by the smoothly, turned-on and disciplined soldiers.
For those soldiers who are deployed on Eid in forward areas, their mission is far beyond their personal selves and families. While other people are busy enjoying their happiness and sharing their delight with near and dear ones, these heroes stand guard, ensuring the safety and security of their fellow countrymen. Their role is not just to showcase heroism; it is a standing symbol of their unwavering commitment to the defence of dear homeland, even when everything around them is adored with celebrations.
A soldier forfeits his life in the call of duty and takes his duties seriously on any day or special occasion regardless.
Within the barracks inside cantonments, where joy and camaraderie are usual things, a blend of moods fills the air on Eid morning, reminding them of their families and friends. But when the soldiers put on their uniforms under duty obligations, they seem to forget about the longing for home and family. A soldier forfeits his life in the call of duty and takes his duties seriously on any day or special occasion regardless.
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Under military discipline, there is an unspoken understanding between the soldiers. With their backs only inches apart, their camaraderie remains tangible and their determination unflinching. For many, however, where their combat brigade becomes their main family away from their homes, on the festival of Eid they come closer to each other to share the delightful moments as a part of an extended family.
Over the frontline, where the drear of conflict usually outweighs the celebration of the happy days, just like most other occasions, Eid, also takes on a different meaning. This is where the actual showdown happens with the officers and their troops exposed to the dust and dangers of the frontline, but their bravery and commitment to duty remain unrelenting. Eid means much more than mere counting on the calendar. It’s recognized as a day to commemorate the daily efforts as well as sacrifices that they make to ensure freedom and sovereignty for their country.
When the muezzin calls the faithful to prayers, the soldiers bow their heads, beseeching Allah to give them the strength and guidance they direly need amid such difficult times. In those moments of introspection, when everything is getting dragged into the turmoil of hard duty, the light of Eid is ever shining, like a beacon against the darkness of life’s fragility or uncertainties.
For the soldiers who are serving on Eid, their service is a call that they accept with great responsibility and honor.
It is in this celebration that families of soldiers at home feel proud of them, while still longing for their loved ones. As these relatives rejoice in the happiness of the event, their minds are not far from the soldiers, who are deployed at the borders of the county. In each particle of food served, in every whisper of prayers, there lies, a kernel of hope along with prayers for the safety and security of the soldiers, who do much more than what is needed to serve and protect their country and its interests.
Nonetheless, even though people are miles apart and separated from their homes, during this special occasion, everyone feels like one. As families come together for the petition and prayers, they expand their prayers and thoughts as well to those of their serving brethren. In so doing, they honor the debt of gratitude, they owe to the courageous men ensuring their safety and security.
For the soldiers who are serving on Eid, their service is a call that they accept with great responsibility and honour. This is selflessness at display for something bigger than themselves and their steadfastness for a bright future. As with the exemplary sacrificial act, they carry on their service to the country with their undeterred resolve; hence, they represent the essence of the Eid celebration – sacrifice, dedication and unwavering determination to be patriotic.
Eid Mubarak to front-line heroes of Pakistan! The nation is so very proud of you!
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