Feedback on the Website of "Air Commodore Syed Abid Raza"

Sitara-e-Basalat, Pakistan Air Force (1927-2000) (https://www.aircommodoresyedabidraza.com/)

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Dear Ahmer Raza, 
Very impressive. You are doing a great job of preserving the memories, achievements and contributions of our Dear Sir Abid Raza sahib. May Allah subhan watala reward you for all the efforts you have done to compile your father achievements. Like they say that well-groomed children are like صدقیہ جاریہ which continues even after one has left this world. I can imagine Abid Raza Sahib smiling up in the heavens seeing your wonderful tribute. This is the least I could do to be a part of the great job you are doing, preserving the contributions of our worthy seniors...I can see the reflection of your great father, resilience and devotion. Stay blessed.

Air Vice Marshal Iftikhar Gul (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Dear Ahmer Raza,
Taking this opportunity to share my complimentary feedback on your late father, Air Commodore Raza sahib’s website.  Your efforts in archiving and documenting the life, career and achievements of your father are not only impressive but were also the need of the hour for the future generations to benefit from it. I worked very closely with your father during Project Blue Flash I (Induction of Mirage Aircraft) in the late 60s. I noticed that Raza sahib was not only a good engineer and dedicated project officer, but he was a trailblazer for the officers of Engineering Branch of the Pakistan Air Force. He with a caring and influential personality, was also established as the technical authority in Aircraft Engineering, (and I must say that his personality traits are also reflected in you as his son) and other good officers who were junior to him in the engineering branch, left an indelible mark due to their accomplishments and achievements, resulted from the training and grooming by your father. Many great engineering officers, I came across during my illustrious service in the PAF, had a common point of being the students of your father and thus they rose to great heights in the Pakistan Air Force, by getting promoted to the rank of Air Vice Marshal & hold the coveted position of Deputy Chief of Air Staff (Engineering). I may want to add that Air Chief Marshal Hakimullah (former Chief of Air Staff) from GDP Branch was not only a great fighter pilot but also a great project officer (like your father) on the flying side and is considered an iconic figure in the Pakistan Air Force. Air Commodore M. M. Alam, a legendary war hero of PAF, who was also your father’s colleague and friend in addition to me and significant number of other officers from all branches of the PAF, participated shoulder to shoulder alongside with your father in the 1965 war and 1971 war. So, all in all, your father’s contribution to the PAF in both peace and war eras, is colossal. This is also acknowledged and validated by the sincere accolades and tributes shared by the officers on his website.
I am glad you are following your father’s footsteps and bringing a good name for Pakistan. Keep it up & well done. My last parting advice would be to share your website’s link and circulate it globally which will be a great honor for Pakistan. 
Best of Luck!
Air Vice Marshal Farooq Umar (R), Pakistan Air Force
Former Director General Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, Kamra I Managing Director, Pakistan International Airlines I CEO, Shaheen Air I Former President PHF

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I have had a quick look at all of it. Everything looks good. You have set a good example for other people and your family. Go ahead and launch it.
Air Vice Marshal Hamid Khawaja (R), Pakistan Air Force

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It is my considered opinion that you have taken lot of pains in digging out relevant details pertaining to the forthcoming book publication.

I generally evaluate your work with sincerity so that if need be i should contribute as deemed fit.

However, despite having no firsthand knowledge about the Airforce you mostly are pretty thorough and precise in your compilation of various scenarios.

As always it is my utmost desire that you successfully culminate the book project. May Allah be with you in your endeavor regarding the book assignment and take care.

Air Commodore Javed Iqbal Hussain (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Asalam o alaikum. I have gone through the links to your father’s article (website links). Very nice, indeed. They highlight your father’s contributions and dedication to his job and service, what a great personality he was. All well written. I am also full of admiration for you for your love and respect for your father so much and how much pains you have taken out of your busy life to let the world know of his achievements. I’m sure Abid sahib would be rightly so proud of you. Regards.

Air Commodore Khatibur Rehman (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Masha Allah. A great tribute to a great personality. Well researched website. It’s a splendid work.
Air Commodore Adnan Khan (R), Pakistan Air Force

 

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It is an excellent tribute to your late father.
Air Commodore Kaiser Tufail (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

 

Excellent work! You are doing an excellent job! I am sure he is smiling at you and proud of you. Great work for keeping the memory and legacy of your father alive. May Allah bless his soul. Aameen!
Air Commodore Javed Khan (R), Pakistan Air Force

 

 

Great effort you are putting in.
Air Commodore Shakil Sheikh (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

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Went through it, it's a great tribute to your father. MA!

​Air Commodore Omar Sani (R), Pakistan Air Force

 

My honest view is it’s EXCELLENT and a great tribute to the ever-loving FATHER.
Group Captain M. S. Baig (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

The website is impressive. Really well formatted and easy to work with.
Group Captain Shoib Ahmed (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

A very well composed and comprehensive coverage of his life and career.
Wing Commander Muhammad Murad (R), Pakistan Air Force

 

 

Mashallah!

Squadron Leader Syed Kamal Mustafa (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Dear Ahmer, You have done a wonderful work in retaining the legacy of Baray Mamoon. I think you have extensively documented everything for posterity. I was thinking if such attempts be made by respective family members to document some of the other tall figures in family. I have shared with few and even if some people picks it up, nobody will reach your excellence. You are today an authority on Askari Nana and a valuable one being, grandson. Let me admit that you are operating in an area where I am not in step with changing times. Feels bad, but too late.
Prayers and best wishes.
Major General S. Shakeel Hussain (R), Pakistan Army 
 

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Well written, good write up, shows the commitment, professionalism and hard work that was required. 

Senator Nuzhat Sadiq, daughter of Late Air Marshal Saeed (R), Pakistan Air Force

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"A unique way of paying tribute to your late father. It stirred the memories of his staunch personality and outstanding achievements.

May Allah reward him with best in hereafter". Thanks.
Mrs. Nudrat Sheikh, daughter of, Late Squadron Leader Iqbal (R), Pakistan Air Force & wife of Air Commodore Shakil Sheikh (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Feedback on the Biographical Article

"ENGINEERING MIRAGE FROM ALIGARH"

(https://www.thekhybermail.com/blog-post/engineering-mirage-from-aligarh/)

Sharing the feedback received on the recently published tribute on Air Commodore Syed Abid Raza by a senior officer of Pakistan Air Force (Air Commodore M. Adnan Khan), in The Khyber Mail, a local newspaper of Pakistan. The article is titled as ENGINEERING MIRAGE FROM ALIGARH, dated December 8th, 2023.
(https://www.thekhybermail.com/blog-post/engineering-mirage-from-aligarh).  The Khyber Mail is a local English newspaper of Pakistan which was first published in Peshawar by eminent journalist Sheikh Sana Ullah in 1932.

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This deeply moving tribute to Air Commodore Syed Abid Raza (S.Bt), written by Air Commodore M. Adnan Khan (Retd), SI(M), stands as a powerful testament to a life devoted to excellence, service, and the defense of the nation. The narrative not only captures the extraordinary journey of a pioneer in Pakistan’s aerospace and engineering history but also delicately portrays the human, emotional, and intellectual dimensions that defined him. From his distinguished academic roots at Aligarh and principled migration to Pakistan, to his critical role in the induction of the Mirage aircraft and the establishment of foundational engineering capabilities within the PAF, his life story is nothing short of inspirational.
Having served myself in the Engineering Branch of the Pakistan Air Force for 32 years, I can personally attest that the monumental contributions of Air Commodore Syed Abid Raza were no small achievement. Such accomplishments are forged through immense personal sacrifice, often unrecognized by those around the individual who quietly labors day and night for the national cause. His legacy is etched not only in the systems and institutions he helped build but in the very ethos of engineering excellence within the PAF.
In this context, I find it especially commendable that his son, Syed Ahmer Raza, has dedicated himself so wholeheartedly to preserving his father’s legacy. A dedication not seen often in today’s hectic lifestyles. Through his meticulous collection of historical documents, photographs, and service records, he has created a digital memorial of enduring national value: www.aircommodoresyedabidraza.com. In an age where historical memory often fades, Ahmer Raza’s tireless efforts ensure that the legacy of a man who helped shape Pakistan’s aerial defense with vision and integrity will not be forgotten. He has turned private remembrance into public heritage; a gift to both history and the nation. 

Air Commodore Shakil Rehman Sheikh (R), Pakistan Air Force

 

The article authored by Air Commodore M. Adnan Khan (Retd), SI(M) is a beautifully written tribute that not only chronicles the illustrious career of Air Commodore Syed Abid Raza but also encapsulates the essence of patriotism, dedication, and professional excellence that defined his life.

The narrative is meticulously detailed, guiding the reader through the remarkable journey of a man who dedicated his entire life to the service of Pakistan. From his early academic achievements at Aligarh Muslim University to his pioneering role in shaping the engineering backbone of the Pakistan Air Force, the article paints a vivid portrait of an extraordinary officer whose contributions continue to resonate even decades after his passing.

What makes this piece particularly commendable is how it intertwines personal anecdotes, historical events, and technical milestones with a sense of respect and admiration. The author has effectively highlighted Air Commodore Raza’s pivotal role in the induction of the Mirage aircraft—a decision that significantly enhanced PAF’s operational capabilities and still stands as a testament to his foresight.

The inclusion of familial heritage, notable associations with historical figures, and his achievements beyond active service adds depth to the article, portraying him not just as a distinguished officer but also as a man of character and resilience. The emotional recount of his personal losses and unwavering faith enriches the tribute, making it both inspiring and heartfelt.

This piece serves not only as a historical document but also as an inspiration for future generations, reminding them of the sacrifices and visionary contributions made by individuals like Air Commodore Syed Abid Raza. The writing style is engaging, respectful, and reflective, successfully honoring the legacy of a true patriot and an engineering pioneer of the Pakistan Air Force.

In conclusion, this article is an outstanding homage that preserves the memory of Air Commodore Syed Abid Raza with dignity and pride. It deserves appreciation for capturing the spirit of his remarkable life and for ensuring that his contributions are remembered and celebrated.

Sarmad Hassan Sharif, brother of Squadron Leader Sharif (R), Pakistan Air Force

 

 

Good I m glad ...there are sons like U who wish to make their father be remembered across the globe... Your father is lucky to have U as his capable son... Thanks

AVM Farooq Umar (R), Pakistan Air Force

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What a tribute!

Wing Commander Muhammad Murad (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Thank you for sharing. 

Masha’Allah uncle had an amazing journey in PAF. May Allah bless and reward uncle for all his efforts and achievements in the service of his nation. Aameen. 

Flt Lieutenant Rashid Khan (R), Pakistan Air Force

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​​​​How nice. Thanks for sharing dear Ahmer.

Wing Commander Wajahat Lodhi, Pakistan 

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​​Very well written based on facts and amazing grit and achievements of uncle Air Commodore Syed Abid Raza. May Allah bless his soul with highest place in Jannah. Ameen 🤲

Syed Azhar Mustafa, USA son of Wing Commander Ashraf (R), Pakistan Air Force

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I had pleasure working under his command in the year 1973- 74.
An excellent commander and loving personality. 
He is daily in my prayers.
May ALMIGHTY ALLAH shower His blessings on the late  Air Cdre Syed Abid Raza and place him in Jannah among His most beloved ones. 
Aameen. 
Thanks, Air Cdre Adnan, for wonderful tribute writeup. 
Keep it up.

Group Captain M. S. Baig (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Your father was an icon in the engineering set up. One of the great commanders and professional
Air Cdre Adnan (R), Pakistan Air Force

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I was lucky to meet Late Air Cdre Raza once he was in SF. A great personality and a down to earth humane human. May Allah bless his soul. Elahi Ameen. He belonged to same province as my maternal ancestry. We did talk about it a little, specially the local cuisine.
Stay blessed.

Air Marshal Mirza Zafar (R), Pakistan Air Force

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I had the honor to serve under his command as Flg Off when he was OC 102MU. May Allah bless his soul. Aameen.
Shoib Ahmed mentioned he was a caring person and good commander. We saw that as the junior most officers in the unit.
Air Commodore Javed Khan (R), Pakistan Air Force

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He was my OC at 102 MU. A very caring person who always had helpful advice for newly graduated Aerospace Engineers. May he rest in peace in Jannat.

Group Captain Shoib Ahmed (R), Pakistan Air Force

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He was a thoroughbred gentleman and a brilliant engineering officer. Soft spoken and amicable. Met him both at Faisal and in the DHA office - he was forthcoming for the officer I was assisting.

Nasir H Khan

 

MashaAllah Adnan. Very well written article. The illustrious and iconic figure of Air Cdr Syed Abid Raza is the glaring example of a man who led from front and the great vision of the great Organization PAF who recognized the worth of a Person and gave him all the required encouragement and support to enhance his personal capacity and placed him in challenging positions and in process raised the standard of PAF Engineering.  No doubt Raza sahib became a trusted and  towering figure and among pioneers of PAF Aeronautical engineering wing. The credit of laying  foundation on solid footing with long term expansioning design surely goes to such visionary officer. Salute to Air Cdr Syed Abid Raza. 

​​Assalam o Alaikum,

My late father Grp.Capt Agha Syed Hassan Raza (old timer from Admin branch ,  known as A.S.H Raza) always spoke very high of Air Cmdr Syed Abid Raza. (S.A Raza)

He use narrate stories of him that how brilliant  and knowledgeable your father was. Specially when Kamara was being made in  1976/77. He was interacting with him a lot Along with Air Vice Marshal Saeed. 

Allah bless their souls in heavens.

No we were mostly in Peshawar. Now presently living in Behria Islamabad. My mother is also Alhamdolillah alive. She surely be remembering your mother. Let me check with her in morning.
Syed Qaiser Raza, son of Late Group Captain Agha Syed Hassan Raza (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Feedback on the Project Article

"Lightening Blue Flash in Blue Skies"

(https://www.thekhybermail.com/blog-post/lightening-blue-flash-in-blue-skies/)

Sharing the feedback received on the recently published article on one of the projects of Air Commodore Syed Abid Raza by a senior officer of Pakistan Air Force, in The Khyber Mail, a local newspaper of Pakistan. The article is titled as ENGINEERING MIRAGE FROM ALIGARH, dated January 15th, 2024.
(https://www.thekhybermail.com/blog-post/lightening-blue-flash-in-blue-skies/).  The Khyber Mail is a local English newspaper of Pakistan which was first published in Peshawar by eminent journalist Sheikh Sana Ullah in 1932.

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Wonderful article. I am sure you must be filled with pride.

Air Commodore Kaiser Tufail (R), Pakistan Air Force

 

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MashaAllah, thank you for sharing!

Mrs. Shahnawar Uzair, daughter of late Squadron Leader Iqbal (R), Pakistan Air Force

 

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Yes saw this. Very interesting and well documented article by Adnan 👍

Syed Azhar Mustafa Ashraf, son late Wing Commander Ashraf (R), Pakistan Air Force

 

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Thanks sharing... Lovely memories, life-time cherishable.

Air Cdre Aslam Ansari (R), Pakistan Air Force

 

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​Thank you for sharing, I really enjoyed reading them. Your father was a powerhouse and so inspiring. He was an asset for Pakistan. May Allah grant him a high place in Jannah.

Pilot Officer Ifrah Faiz (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Great!

Dr. Syed Iftikhar Ahmed son of late Group Captain Najmuddin (R), Pakistan Air Force. 

 

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FEEDBACK ON AIR COMMODORE RAZA'S PHOTOGRAPHS POSTED ON SEVERAL FACEBOOK PAGES & FORUMS

 

Great human being and officer. 
Larger than life generation - one of few uncles I held in awe yet was not afraid of him   - I can never talk of them in the past tense
Flt Lieutenant Ahmed Saeed (R), Pakistan Air Force (PAF Club FB Page –July 14, 2016), FB June 22, 2015 

 

 

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Must be part of PAF Museum and PAC.
Air Marshal Mirza Zafar (R), Pakistan Air Force (PAF Club FB Page –July 14, 2016)

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His remarkable services will be remembered for all times to come .. May his soul rest in peace . Ameen 
Senator Nuzhat Sadiq, daughter of Late Air Marshal Saeed (R), Pakistan Air Force, PAF Club FB Page April 5th 2021)

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A Great Man he was. May Allah bless him in Paradise. Raza Bhai was simply unforgettable. Always smiling. 
A wonderful personality, a good neighbor and a sincere friend.
Oh, my dear friend Syed Abid Raza, you are missed ever since you left to reside in paradise. Unforgettable memories. What a nice friend was he. He was a dear friend of mine. May Allah bless him in paradise Ameen. A sweet and sincere friend Ever
Colonel Wajahat Lodhi FB June 22, 2015 , January 14, 2016, June 22, 2015, April 17, 2016, 2019 

 

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Mirage Group Photo 1980

Ahmer Raza. A historical photograph.
Air Commodore Khatibur Rehman (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Portrait Photo 1948

Wonderful to have these historical pictures restored. Uncle looking great....

Late Squadron Leader Saadullah Khan (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Ancestral House Photo
Good job, Ahmer!

Air Vice Marshal Hamid Khawaja (R), Pakistan Air Force

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OC, Parade Photo, 1960

Great compilation. Its always good to see Uncle through the years of his service. Keep the memories fresh

Nudrat Sheikh, daughter of Late Squadron Leader S. M. Iqbal (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Small Group Photo 1960s
Thank you Ahmer for sharing I can see my father also.

Mahjabeen Tariq, daughter of Late Air Vice Marshal M. Saeed (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Portrait Photo, Kamra, 1980

Indeed great men leave their mark behind .May Allah bless uncle with his infinite mercy.I believe that death is the beginning of another stage of journey I am sure will be still creating history.

Seema Kazim, daughter of Late Air Commodore Kazim (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Portrait collage 1948 n 1980
Ahmer Raza you are gr8 like your father. God bless

Air Marshal Farhat Hussain Khan (R), Pakistan Air Force

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May Allah bless uncle's soul. Ameen!

Saad Habib, son of Late Group Captain Mecci (R), Pakistan Air Force

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FEEDBACK ON AIR COMMODORE RAZA'S BIOGRAPHY VIDEO

Very good film about your (Ahmer's) late father, (Air Commodore Raza) and his contributions towards the nascent air force and his dedicated hard work in making it an efficient combat force by ensuring top class maintenance of all weapon systems of PAF. One of the few engineering officers whose contributions would be long remembered and cherished for times to come. Such were the people who laid the strong foundation for a strong and combat effective air force.
Air Marshal Mirza Zafar (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

 

Ahmer Raza you are a gr8 son.

Air Marshal Farhat Hussain Khan (R), Pakistan Air Force

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It is very nice and well prepared.
Air Vice Marshal Iftikhar Gul (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

Very good in every way.  I am impressed by your (Ahmer's) love and loyalty to your father (Air Cdre Raza). May he rest in peace.
Air Vice Marshal Hamid Khawaja (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Very impressive and well laid out biographical video.
Air Commodore Khatibur Rehman (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

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​I have started looking at the video. Viewed the intro. Looks good. 
Air Commodore Javed Khan (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

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​Excellent.​

Air Commodore Kaiser Tufail (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Dear Ahmer Raza sb, I truly admire your love and passion in making immense efforts in paying a befitting tribute to your great father. I am sure up-above, he would be really proud of you. Prayers.
Air Commodore Khalid Chisthi (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Things are very well placed. This looks really good now.
Air Commodore Shakil Sheikh (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

 

​Excellent. Indeed a good effort. Good luck.

Air Commodore Adnan Khan (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

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Saw the first one and it's very good already.

Air Commodore Omar Sani (R), Pakistan Air Force

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It is a very interesting audio and video documentary.
Anyway congratulations on producing this attractive show.
Group Captain Syed Masood Akhtar Hussaini (R), Pakistan Air Force
(Official Aviation Artist of PAF)

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MASHAALLAH, FABULOUS. Allah Karim.
Your industrious and sincere efforts. Moreover, I have not seen such good work earlier. Allah be with you.
Group Captain M. S. Baig (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

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The script is complete. 
I have not seen any other such websites or videos.
Group Captain Shoib Ahmed (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

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Highly professional. Compatible with BBC and CNN.
Clear and crisp narration. 
The preparation of this video presentation is commendable.  
Squadron Leader M. Akhtar Rao (R), Pakistan Air Force
(Project Blue Flash I - Mirage 1968)
 

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I have just viewed the video. It is an excellent work; methodically and chronologically covering the life, career and achievements of late Air Cdre Syed Abid Raza. 
I really appreciate your (Ahmer's) great efforts to bring on record the glories of a father by his son. Great homage by a son for his illustrious father. Thanks for acknowledging my humble assistance.
Wing Commander Altaf-ur-Rahman Khan (R), Pakistan Air Force

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A great and appropriate compilation.
Wing Commander Muhammad Murad (R), Pakistan Air Force

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I watched it! A great achievement by you (Ahmer) Masha Allah. 
It comprehensively covers his life (both military and civil), career highlights and achievements. Kudos to you for all the effort and wishing you Godspeed in the future endeavors too. May Allah grant Raza sahib a place in Jannah and forgive his sins Ameen. He was indeed a high achiever and a true great man.
Wing Commander Fareed Bilgrami (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

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I saw the video. Nicely done and a great effort. Jazakallah!
Squadron Leader Syed Ali Muntazir Rizvi (R), Pakistan Air Force
 

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Masha’Allah very well made. It’s a glimpse of history of Pakistan Air Force. May Allah reward your father for his dedication and service. Aameen.

Flight Lieutenant Rashid Khan(R), Pakistan Air Force

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A wonderful tribute to an amazing legend of PAF.

I commend Ahmer for spear heading this project which he did with lots of research, compilation of data and most of all great tribute from a son to his loving father.

May God bless you for your efforts.

As they say "An apple does not fall far from the tree". Congratulations on a job well done!

Seema Kazim, daughter of Late Air Commodore Kazim (R), Pakistan Air Force

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It's a great pleasure to see this video with family photographs.Refreshes back memories of Uncle and Aunty. Thanks for sharing.

Nudrat Sheikh, daughter of Late Squadron Leader S. M. Iqbal (R), Pakistan Air Force

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Very inspiring and accomplished carrier of your beloved father. May the Almighty bless his soul.

Daud Shah, son of Late Air Commodore Air Cdre Mansoor A. (Poly) Shah (R), Pakistan Air Force

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God bless them all. Thanks for Sharing.

Shireen Saeed Kamran, daughter of Late Air Marshal Saeed (R), Pakistan Air Force

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​​​(Sources: IM, WhatsApp & FB @ https://www.facebook.com/syed.raza.7169709)

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