Army Chief Emphasizes Shooting Skills at Pakistan Army Rifle Association Meet

In the realm of military training, proficiency in shooting stands as a cornerstone of a soldier's skill set. This was emphatically reiterated by Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir during the closing ceremony of the 44th Pakistan Army Rifle Association central meet. The event, held at the Army Marksmanship Unit in Jhelum, showcased the dedication and talent of over 2,000 shooters from various branches of the military, including the army, navy, air force, and Rangers from Sindh and Punjab.

From October 14 to November 28, the central meet served as a platform for fierce competition, where participants demonstrated their marksmanship abilities. General Asim Munir highlighted that "shooting is a defining characteristic of a professional soldier" and emphasized its importance in military training. This statement underscores the critical role that shooting skills play in ensuring the effectiveness and readiness of the armed forces.

During the ceremony, General Asim Munir, alongside Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, presented trophies and medals to the winners and runners-up. The Pakistan Army emerged triumphant in three inter-services matches, while the Pakistan Air Force claimed victory in the CAS match. Notably, the Pakistan Army secured the overall Championship Trophy and also won the FTR team trophy, showcasing their dominance in the competition.

Among the individual accolades, Naik Waseem Ahmed Khan of the Pakistan Army was awarded the President’s Cup National Challenge match trophy, a testament to his exceptional skills. The Prime Minister Skills at Arms Big Bore National Challenge was won by the Pakistan Air Force, further highlighting the competitive spirit among the branches. Additionally, the Azad Kashmir Regiment excelled in the para-firing matches for the infantry squad, demonstrating versatility and skill.

Recognition was also given to Sepoy Aftab Ahmed of the Punjab Regiment, who received the prestigious ‘The Master at Arms’ Trophy for being the highest achiever in military shooting. The ‘Best Shot Match Trophy’ was awarded to Lance Dafadar Muhammad Imran of Cavalry and Havaldar Fateh Ullah Khan of EME Battalion for Groups 2 and 3, respectively, showcasing the high standards of marksmanship within the ranks.

General Asim Munir commended all shooters for their outstanding performance, reinforcing the notion that excellence in shooting is not just a skill but a vital aspect of military professionalism. As the armed forces continue to evolve, the emphasis on marksmanship remains crucial, ensuring that soldiers are well-prepared to face any challenges that may arise. This commitment to training and excellence not only enhances the capabilities of the military but also instills a sense of pride and accomplishment among the personnel.