- By: Major Nadeem Baig (R)
Every nation is blessed with heroes whose courage and sacrifice become eternal chapters of history. For Pakistan, September 7, 1965 marks a day when the skies echoed with glory, courage, and unmatched skill—thanks to Squadron Leader Muhammad Mahmood Alam, lovingly remembered as M. M. Alam.
On that fateful day, Alam inscribed his name in golden letters by shooting down five Indian fighter aircraft in less than a minute, a feat unmatched in the history of aerial combat. His daring maneuver not only safeguarded Pakistan’s skies but also infused the entire nation with pride and confidence during the 1965 war.
Alam’s unmatched skill as a fighter pilot earned him the title of “ Ace of the Skies ” and the Sitara-e-Jurat, one of Pakistan’s highest military honors. But more than medals, it was his fearless devotion to his motherland that made him unforgettable.
He stood as a symbol of courage, patriotism, and professional excellence, proving that victory is achieved not by numbers, but by faith, determination, and unwavering spirit.
As we commemorate Air Force Day on September 7, we remember M. M. Alam not just as a war hero, but as a living legend of the skies, whose legacy continues to inspire generations of Pakistanis.