CHATTOGRAM: Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman took the initiative to build up a strong armed force despite the economic constraints of the war-torn country, said President M Abdul Hamid.

Under his command, Bangladesh Military Academy was established at Cumilla Cantonment in the year of 1972.

The president was addressing a flag-giving ceremony of four artilleries at Halishahor Artillery Centre and School in Chattogram Sunday (February 23).

The president said the works for modernization, restructuring and expansion of Bangladesh army are on as per the ‘Defense Policy’ framed by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1974.

“A modern, time-befitting and strong military is very essential for any country,” President Hamid observed.

“The national flag is the symbol of independence, sovereignty, honour and dignity of a nation. It’s a scared responsibility of all soldiers to uphold its dignity. Stay always ready to make supreme sacrifice for it,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion of awarding the national standard status to 1, 2, 3, field regiment artilleries and 38 air defense regiment artillery here, he said the members of armed forces will have to contribute to the welfare acts for the need of the country and the nation.

BDST: 1500 HRS, FEB 23, 2020

AH/SMS