BAF base renamed after Bir Uttam A K Khandker

Bangladesh Air Force Base at Kurmitola, Dhaka Cantonment, has been renamed “Bangladesh Air Force Base Bir Uttam A K Khandker”. 

The renaming ceremony of Bangladesh Air Force Base Bir Uttam A K Khandker was held today at Kurmitola Air Force Base, Dhaka Cantonment, said a release of the Directorate of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR)  this afternoon. 

Chief of Air Staff of BAF Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan was present at the renaming ceremony as the chief guest. 

Speaking on the occasion, the  Chief of Air Staff showed deep respect to the valiant freedom fighters who made the ultimate sacrifice for the independence of Bangladesh and to all the martyrs of the July-August uprising.

He also respectfully recalled Air Vice Marshal A K Khandker, Bir Uttam, a fearless hero of the Liberation War and a distinguished personality in the nation’s history, whose heroic contributions have led to the renaming of this base in his honour.

Air -Vice Marshal A K Khandker, Bir Uttam was not only a valiant freedom fighter but also a visionary leader who played a pioneering role in the formation of Bangladesh Air Force. 
His unwavering devotion, strategic acumen and indomitable spirit in the liberation war of 1971 have been a source of inspiration for the nation.

As the Deputy Chief of Staff of “Mukti Bahini”, he played an important role in coordinating the efforts led to victory through the fierce liberation struggle. 

 After independence, he was appointed as the first Chief of Air Staff and under his capable leadership; he was able to reorganize the war-torn Air Force. 

By naming the base after his name for his contribution to the establishment of Bangladesh Air Force and his unparalleled role in the development of the force honour is given to him and his successors, the ISPR said

For the bravery and patriotism he had shown during the great war of independence, Air vice Marshal A K Khandker was awarded with the gallantry award `Bir Uttam’ by the government of Bangladesh.

Besides, in recognition of his outstanding role while conducting the Liberation War, restructuring Bangladesh Air Force and building the nation, Air Vice Marshal A K Khandker, Bir Uttam was also awarded ‘Independence Award-2011’ by the government of Bangladesh.

Family members of Air Vice Marshal a K. Khandker, Bir Uttam, attended the renaming ceremony as special guests. In addition, key military and civilian officials, air officer commanding of Bangladesh Air Force Base Bir Uttam A. K. Khandker, assistant chiefs of air staff, and other dignitaries attended this function.