Staff Reporter:
The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) celebrated Independence and National Day on Thursday with due dignity and enthusiasm, marking a significant milestone as its modern mechanized fleet participated in the national parade for the first time in 18 years.
A well-equipped BGB contingent took part in the grand parade held at the National Parade Square in Tejgaon under the patronage of the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs and the management of the Armed Forces Division, said a press release of the paramilitary force.
During the parade, the contingent greeted President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman through a combined march past.
The main attraction of this year’s celebration was the display of BGB’s modern mechanized capabilities, widely appreciated as a unique demonstration of the force’s operational strength.
The parade featured advanced equipment including Armored Personnel Carriers (APC), Riot Control Vehicles (RCV), Anti-Tank Guided Weapons (ATGW), and All Terrain Vehicles (ATV).
Specialized units such as the Quick Response Force (QRF) and Rapid Action Team (RAT) also demonstrated their readiness.
In addition, helicopter flypasts supervised by the BGB Air Wing and performances by the K-9 unit highlighted the force’s multidisciplinary skill.
Earlier in the day, programmes began with the hoisting of the national flag at all BGB units across the country, including its headquarters in Pilkhana.
At sunrise, BGB Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui participated in the wreath-laying ceremony at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar, alongside the President and Prime Minister.
Later, he paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at “Border Pride” in Pilkhana, where a smart BGB contingent presented a guard of honor.
On the occasion, wreaths were also placed on behalf of the Director General at the graves of Bir Sreshtha Lance Naik Noor Mohammad Sheikh in Kashipur, Sharsha, Jessore, and Bir Sreshtha Lance Naik Munshi Abdur Rouf in Burighat, Naniarchar, Rangamati.
To mark the day, the BGB Museum and BGB Zoo were opened to children from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Special prayers were held after Isha prayers at the BGB headquarters and all units nationwide, seeking peace, prosperity, and continued progress for the country, and praying for the souls of the Liberation War martyrs.
Earlier, on March 25, Genocide Day was observed with special prayers after Zohr in remembrance of those killed in the brutal massacre carried out by Pakistani forces on the night of March 25, 1971.
