Dhaka, Broadcasting News Corporation:  On Wednesday (24 December 2025 AD) after Asr prayer, a special prayer gathering was held at the Falcon Hall of the Dhaka Air Force Base for the forgiveness of the soul of the great freedom fighter of the Liberation War, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Liberation Army, proud eminent son of the nation, and former Chief of Air Staff, late Air Vice Marshal Abdul Karim Khandaker, Bir Uttam, PSA (Retd.). The prayer gathering was attended by esteemed Chiefs of the Army and Air Force, former Chiefs of Air Staff, members of the bereaved family, senior officers of the military, and other dignitaries. During the event, a special supplication was offered for the forgiveness, peace, and entrance to Jannatul Firdous of the deceased’s soul.
The late Air Vice Marshal A.K. Khandakar, Bir Uttam, was not only a brave freedom fighter but also a visionary leader who played a crucial role in the formation of the Bangladesh Air Force. His unwavering dedication, strategic intelligence, and indomitable spirit during the Liberation War of 1971 have been a source of inspiration for the nation. As the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Liberation Forces, he played an important role in coordinating efforts that led to victory through the arduous struggle for liberation. After independence, he was appointed the first Chief of the Air Staff and, under his capable leadership, the war-ravaged air force was successfully reorganized. In recognition of his patriotic and courageous contributions to the Great Liberation War of Bangladesh, Air Vice Marshal A.K. Khandakar was honored with the title ‘Bir Uttam.’ Additionally, the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh awarded Air Vice Marshal A.K. Khandakar, Bir Uttam, the ‘Independence Award-2011’ in recognition of his extraordinary role in directing the Liberation War, organizing the post-independence Bangladesh Air Force, and contributing remarkably to nation-building.