By Farman Ullah
Muhammad Mahmood Alam, the Pakistani hero born on July 6, 1935, in Calcutta, left an indelible mark on history with his incredible achievements in the 1965 war with India. His remarkable story is a testament to the spirit of Pakistan’s brave military forces, who have always gone all out to defend their country.
A Nation United
The 1965 war was a defining moment for Pakistan, showcasing the unbreakable bond between the nation and its armed forces. Despite being outnumbered, Pakistanis came together to thwart India’s aggression, proving that unity and determination can lead to victory. Our military forces were absolute heroes, showing some serious guts and grit.
A Star Pilot Emerges
MM Alam, our star pilot, was right in the thick of it, defending our country’s sovereignty from his base in Sargodha. He was a total rockstar in the skies during the war, with a passion for Pakistan and some serious flying chops. His skills in the F-86 Sabre jet were simply unbeatable, and he got into some wild dogfights.
A Record-Breaking Feat
But the craziest thing he did was take down five enemy planes in just 60 seconds – with four of them falling in just 30 seconds! That is just insane, and it’s no wonder they gave him the nickname ‘Little Dragon.’ His record is straight-up amazing – nine enemy planes downed, two more damaged.
A Legacy Cemented
MM Alam received the prestigious Sitara-e-Jurat award for his heroics, and September 7, 1965, is a day that will be remembered forever. His bravery was a total game-changer, leaving the Indian Air Force shaken. And now, his legendary status is cemented in history, inspiring people for generations with his fearless, eagle-like spirit.
A Life of Devotion
After retiring from the Air Force in 1982, Alam became more devoted to his faith. Despite struggling with health issues, he remained a beloved figure in Pakistani society. A road in Lahore’s Gulberg area is named after him, a testament to his enduring legacy.
A Reminder of Unity
MM Alam’s passing is a reminder that the defense of our country is a collective responsibility and that unity and national solidarity are essential to protecting Pakistan’s sovereignty. His legendary legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.