The passing-out parade of the 29th batch of the Pak Marines was held at the Marine Academy PNS Qasim on Saturday.
The batch comprised of 110 sailors whose passing-out ceremony was held after completion of a 78-week rigorous training. Commander Coast Pakistan Navy Rear Admiral Muhammad Shafi was the chief guest at the ceremony.
Speaking at the ceremony the chief guest said that the role of the Marines had always been important and unique in nature due to highly adverse environment and extreme weather conditions of the area of their responsibility.
He said the Marines, besides safeguarding the coastal installations of the Pakistan Navy, had also been effectively discharging their duties for protecting the south-eastern borders of the country. Marines have also been entrusted with the added responsibility of providing air defence to the naval installations, he added.
The chief guest urged the passing-out marines to acquaint themselves with the best use of available arms and weapons and achieve professional excellence to meet the challenges of the fast changing security environment.
Earlier in his welcome address Commander Pak Marines Captain Arshad M Khan highlighted the salient features of the Marines training. He apprised the audience that the training comprises of four different phases in which they are trained in use of small arms, swimming, war tactics and counter-air strikes besides academic activities for the marines.
Viqar Muhammad was awarded Commander Coast gold medal for his overall best performance. Al Haj Hussain was declared the best in Watermanship whereas Muhammad Bilal and Sohail Ahmed received awards for being the best in marksmanship and physical unarmed combat respectively. Rear Admiral Muhammad Shafi awarded medals and prizes among the distinguished marines.
