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#66
Dear Sir, I have read the book and found it to be he best on Pakistan Air Force. The flow is exceptionally good and the incidents touched upon are very interesting. I also commend your sense of justice and fairplay in that you did not get carried away by fiction, but based your narration of history on facts.
I salute you and other brave pilots of PAF who fought a much larger but inept air force of our enemy and forced them into submission. We can very well say that PAF saved Pakistan in 1965 when they operated most crucial missions and thwarted the nefarious designs of the Indians. -
#65
I can see from this guest book that I join a multitude of people who appreciate not only the AC's book but his service as a fighter pilot to our country.
However, I am compelled to note that there are a couple of observations that I vehemently disagree with.
Mr. A Malik (presumably a pseudonym) makes some 'observations' that I would like to explore. He first suggests that the book is a ‘decent job’ of identifying the weaknesses of our leaders and then in the very next sentence derides the book as a compendium of grievances. Really? Which is it? Every other review suggests the book is an attempt to present an account of the nation’s war history from an active participant. With regard to the AC’s supposed grievances, anyone who has worked in any organization of any size, with its necessary baggage of organizational politics HAS suffered the consequences of such politics and I for one do not believe that AC has complained other than describing the travails of establishing a career – perfectly normal. Now Mr. Malik may have achieved the heights of personal achievement without suffering the usual organizational politics, but that would make him the exception. Are you an exceptional achiever Mr. Malik?
Perhaps I misunderstand the statement of the 22 families, but when did Bhutto belong to these ‘vampires’? I find the criticism of someone seeking the help of his friends unseemly – if the AC is not going to ask his friends for help then whom? Mr. Malik? I think not. More importantly, what does that have to do with the storyline – that of missed opportunities and bad leadership?
Mr. Malik then introduces some outside-of-the-book knowledge by saying that the AC was reputedly “arrogant and vane” throughout his career. Ignoring the redundancy (and incorrect spelling), SO WHAT? Once again, if the AC is an arrogant person, a fact not in evidence other that Mr.Malik’s suggestion, then so be it – we are to read his book and make up our minds about its contents NOT about the AC himself. Why introduce this personal attack? How do you know about the AC’s reputation? Perhaps if you elaborated on how you came about this knowledge we would be able to determine your credibility, Mr. Malik.
Mr. Malik then proceeds to accuse the AC of not being a gentleman. Here is an unwarranted personal attack AGAIN. I read the portions about the AC’s personal life with considerable trepidation for I am not used to such open discussion about one’s personal life anywhere in Pakistani authorship. To the best of my reading of the book, the AC only NAMED his wives and NEVER named any of his ‘lady friends’. Okay, so the AC enjoyed the life of a romantic ‘ladies man’ and says so memorably –‘always in love’ – but NEVER ‘kissed and told’. Would Mr. Malik prefer that the AC write his story in an antiseptic, holier-than-thou manner, or should the AC have, as he did, write it, ‘warts and all’? I leave to the readers to reach their own conclusion, but it is certain that the AC never crossed the line that Mr. Malik suggests.
Not satisfied with his unwarranted, unsubstantiated attacks on the AC’s person, he then viciously attacks other pilots and without ANY evidence to support his smear, suggests that Abbas Khattak, et al were corrupt thieves. WOW. I guess the internet and its anonymity allows such personal attacks without any repercussions. It makes my blood boil that these people are attacked without evidence and cannot defend themselves because no one knows who Mr. Malik is – other than an individual who chooses to make his charges “behind the veil” of anonymity – he may even be a coward. Perhaps.
Then Mr. Malik, not satisfied with his personal attacks on the AC and other pilots, he denigrates the profession of fighter piloting ITSELF, by equating it to the job of a constable. In one fell swoop, he has belittled every fighter pilot in history, from the WWI observer pilots who took pot shots at each other with their pistols to the modern day pilot with his multi-role plane and its helmet controlled operation – ALL OF THEM ARE THE SAME AS A CONSTABLE. This analogy has to be the worst since man first picked up the pen. Really, Mr. Malik? Have you no shame? Why do you increasingly sound like a jealous/envious person who, on not obtaining the object of his desire, belittles it? Are you a jilted ‘wannabe’ fighter pilot? Perhaps. Not content with belittling the profession, he then complains of over-compensation. Is there no limit to your obvious HATRED of fighter pilots?
I wonder if the AC took him up on his offer to discuss over a “refreshing beverage”.
Anyway, these are my ‘two paisas’ on the book (and Mr. Malik) and I wish the AC Godspeed and happy tailwinds. -
#64
Asalaam aulaikum Sir,
I am sure you get numerous emails every day. You are truly a legend and my hero.
I always wanted to join PAF but it did not happen. I have twin boys that are almost six years old and I can see my passion for flying has been passed on to them. I look forward to the future years where I can read Flight of the Falcon to them. Well my copy of your book is ordered and I cannot wait for it.
Thank you for all that you have done for our country.
Best wishes,
Tamir Hussain
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#63
Dear Abid Hussain,
You have very valid questions. The answer to weather Sarfraz Rafiqui's guns really jammed have been an enigma for many seasoned fighter pilots of the time. In over a decade of flying F-86's in peace and war there was not a single case of all guns jamming. Also from his wingman's story it does not seem plausible that such a failure of all guns happened. Cecils story is difficult to stand the test of veracity.
As far the 1973 Arab-Israeli war, yes, the only Israeli aircraft shot down were by PAF pilots. I know for sure that an Israeli Mirage J (For Jewish) escorted by Israeli Phantoms was shot down by Flt.Lt. Sattar Alvi, a consummate fighter pilot. He was flying a Mig-21 on which he had very little experience and he was on minimum fuel (Mig-21 had only 30minutes fuel endurance) when the air combat took place. The PAF call sign was Shahbaz and Alvni was flying a wingman position with another great fighter pilot Arif Manzoor. Sattar Alvi shot Israeli Captain M.Lutz,one of the two Mirages as his fuel was evaporating faster than seconds on his clock. Sattar Alvi and Arif Manzoor were awarded the highest Syrian gallantry award Wisam Alfaris. Sattar was also awarde the coveted Sitar-e-Jurat by the PAF, for his gallantry.
kudos to those young warriors of the PAF.
I hope that this answers the questions about the professionalism of PAF pilots. -
#62
Again a great book but did leave a few questions in my mind. In the mission that Rafiqi led over Halwara, whether his guns were really jammed as claimed by the PAF or is this just another myth. Also wondering if PAF had any role to play in the 1973 Arab-Israeli war where it is popularly believed that the PAF performed exceedingly well.
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#61
I am gratified to know that the mission of writing my book is bearing fruition. People like yourself and others who are contacting me and the youth in Pakistan have to mobilize opinion and take back their Pakistan which Quaid-e-Azam had bequeathed upon us. My generation failed in good measure to teach their children Pakistaniat and patriotism and euligising the father of the nation. Its your generation which must make the sacrifice to take Pakistan out of the political filth it is mired in and demolish the cult politics where dynasties are being prepared. Sons, daughters, cousins and brothers are in the pipeline to deny the true Pakistanis their right to govern with dignity and honesty. Let us bring down the walls which hide the reprobates, bandits,murderers and looters of national wealth. They are doing it with brazen abandon because no one from 165 million has shown the courage to stand up and be counted. God be with those who have the will to show their spine.
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#60
It was about time someone would put things in perspective and demolish some of the myths of 65 and 71 wars. I congratulate you for the fact that you have tried your best to be as objective as possible when it comes to narrating facts of history. It is interesting that your book is also most sought after on the other side of the border judging by the interest it has generated on some of the Indian defense forums. Another interesting part of your book is when you describe how you stood up and spoke to General Zia. Only somebody who is upright and sincere can have the audacity to confront a dictator like you did. About the events that unfolded in 1971, I wonder if you had the opportunity to read "Witness to Surrender" by Sadiq Salik (late) who was another author I enjoyed reading.
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#59
Aqsa,
Thank You for your comments. Wear Special shoes or orthoses (shoe inserts) to create the curve. Good luck!! -
#58
sir,
you are an inspiration.i want to join the air force just like you but unfortunately i have flat feet and everybody is telling me that its not possible but i will still try. -
#57
Sir,
hope you are in the best of health.first and foremost i am a student of BBa and always wanted to be fighter pilot.when i read your book i was awe struck at the scenario
of pakistan's corrupt leadership at that time.however i must compliment your work deeply as you written quite well and have opened up a new genera of facts.i am also happy that you have given the ace pakistani pilots their dividend of valor , bravery in your book.As your true fan hope to meet you someday in islamabad. have lots of questions to ask ..Love your book -
#56
It is so pleasing to see some one passing on
to this generation how far the PAF contributed
in those wars. We lost for ever some of the
finest persons and airmen. We mourn their deaths
but feel proud of their spirit of sacrifice.
Sir, the momories of the past are so bright.
I wish it was possible to re-live the past.
Sincerely,
Khalid (No.2)
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#55
Sir,
The book is an enjoyable and informative read, thank you. Firstly, while I commend your bravery, I must say I'm really surprised by how defensive you are with Mr. Malik's comments. I don't see him as undoing your work or the work or calibre of your brothers in arms. In any case, his are the opinions of one reader and one would think an author respects opinions, even if they are sometimes diametrically/violently opposite. So, please...hang your beret and pick your pen. You're an author, grandpa, and leader now, aren't you?
There are several operational aspects that I was totally unaware of although I'm privy to some of the bungling that happened in '65 & '71 within and without the military establishment (my father was a contemporary of yours and my grandfather served the RAF).
That said, at the risk of distraction, I want to supplement your rallying call for our people to unite and lift our nation from the mess we find it in today. One could write tomes on it but I will cover just one aspect: the leadership. Specifically, the vision and the management smarts that makes a good leader a great leader. I think this forum appropriate (as any, in fact) because if our leaders articulate the vision, guts, perception, and management prowess that you and a few exemplary others do, we could be on the right path again. In context, one of the serious deficiencies of our current society and polity is the endless articulation of base emotions, hollow patriotism, and unstudied judgments - whether no TV or newspapers or blogs. Invariably there is the cursory invocation of faith. I'm not saying patriotism or faith is not relevant but you know what I mean ... While there are people who can think rationally, all we see is emotional tripe based on not objective analysis of history and reality but naivete and misinformation. Not strategy but a whole set of unrelated tactical BS. That type of thinking is what has led us into a series of blunders including our 'Bleeding India' "strategies". We know how it is bleeding US. Now, I have never visited India but I have been to several countries and live in the USA where I have befriended several Indians with who I have frequent intense and passionate - but always respectful - arguments. I'm embarrassed to admit that I cannot have the same quality of discussions - forget respectful arguments - with my own countrymen. It always descends into something very base. What is with our education system?! Why are we so under-exposed? Why are we so insecure? The Sri Lankans are not. Not the Bangladeshis nor Nepalese. The Bhutanese? Let's not go into Gross National Happiness here. Anyway, my key point is this: we got to think strategic. We have to realize that we cannot depend on the charity or others - the Americans and the Saudis particularly. We have to BUILD our own infrastructure and live on the dole forever. We have to stop being afraid and insecure. We have to believe in higher goals and we have to organize ourselves better. If we don't educate our children beyond the very narrow "national goals" ( you know what those are), we are doomed forever. Importantly, we need the leaders, writers, businessmen, journalists, educators who can think and MANAGE thoughts, organizations, processes strategically and smartly. This is the one area we're losing out to not only India but several other countries with less potential than us. I'll leave you and your readers with a great piece of realpolitik writing by one of our own. This is the kind of thinking we have to do for ourselves. http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2010\01\21\story_21-1-2010_pg3_2
Cheers and best wishes on the sale of your book. -
#54
dear sajad uncle, im only 12 years old but I want you to know that u are a role model for me.
I wanted to ask u if u could tag all the people in the photos in your photo gallery so that we admirers can know about the people who are standing near you
My father was almost a PAF pilot but sadly, he could not pass the medical examination .Anyways, like u, I am a boy seeking a choice of uniform.I'M more into khaki but have'nt made my mind over joining the army or the air force. Could u give me some advice?
your true fan,
s.azhar h.naqvi -
#53
Sir,
Firstly let me compliment u on a fine book,though i do not necessarily agree with all ur points of view.
A brief intro about me: i"m from the "other side" ,still in uniform so thus remain anonymous.Pl bear with me.
We share a common profession thus are bound by honour &deed regardless of the colour of the uniform. It was refreshing to know that so much of the services culture is common to both sides.There are brave men on both sides; and also the frauds n sycophants who critisize without ever having left their comfortable urban armchairs.They have NEVER put their lives on the line & never will. They will never know the smell of gunpowder & the moment when all that matters is victory or death.Unfortunately such pen pushers rule the roost!
Ur description of the Srinagar raid was great & having flown in the valley for years i could literally picturise the mission.Ah, and yes the scenery is fantastic in summers.
A bit of inputs of the attack by ur 18 Div in the desert.It was an audacious plan and may well have suceeded but for a band of brave "punjabis" under a resolute company cdr at Longewala.The tanks hit the minefield and then halted &started recceing left n right trying to find a way around.A few well placed anti tank RCL rounds added to their confusion and wasted precious time and so got daylighted.Thereafter the IAF had a field day.
I will clear a few misconceptions here.Unlike what is populary led to beleive,the first strike of Hunters did NOT locate the enemy armour.Thereafter the Divisional Army AIR op got airborne in an unarmed Krishak Aircraft ,located the tanks and then guided the fighters onto the target.
Yes,ur right the PAF was not present.A couple of Sabres/Mirages in the area and it would have been a diffrent story & probably Wingco Bawa and his flyboys wouldnt be bragging their mouths off today.Anyway,it was good fortune for us,bad planning for ur side.
Our own armour never reached the battle zone intact as a viable fighting force.The AMX 13 tanks of the Div armoured regt all broke down enroute along the desert,leaving the Div Commander with a lifelong distrust of loudmouth cavalrymen.Ask me-i"m his son.
Cheers & best regards. -
#52
"A Mr. malik has made comments which were tantamount to attack on my personality and general denigration of PAF pilots. His assertions about my colleagues were contrived and unjustified."
why does it matter for someone to contact you personally for posting their opinion.Take criticism like a man you claim to be and move on. FYI, On a public forum, you should expect opposing views: some palatable while others which will simply ruffle the feathers like case in point. Don't get too comfortable with accolades and welcome to free press pal! -
#51
Sir....i have finally managed the guts to write to you...i am short of words...and my heart pounds as i make an attempt to converse directly with a hero of 65....AM Dilawar has been my next door neighbor since about 7 years and every time i see him i am awe struck...just knowing the fact that he crossed a jet into India...sorry for the long intro...i am a serving pilot who is struggling to recover the nose diving everything in PAF....i believe and i know that we are what we are today on the foundations built by all of you....God bless you sir and i wish S/L Rafiqui would have been alive today and Perhaps Air Force would have been so different....after reading your book i will again come back for so so many unanswered question regarding the heydays of PAF...
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#50
Dear Air Cdre Haider,
I salute you for your magnificent book "Flight of the Falcon". I come from a military family and a Petarian, I could relate to 1965 and 1971 wars. Your indomitable spirit, boldly leading from the front against all odds, exemplify's the best in air combat, you made us all proud. Indeed the PAF is the pride of the nation. Not only have you been a hot shot pilot, you're accomplished writer too, you write beautifully. We await a sequel. You have served the nation beyond the call of duty in war and peace. God bless you.
Yawar Shah
Former President
Canada Pakistan Assoc
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada
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#49
Dear Sajjad Saheb,
I was watching your recent TV appearance on HUM TV with Naeem Bukhari Saheb. For me, watching & listening to our heroes, specially from defence forces, is an unexplainable phenomenon. Me and my wife, watch them with a streak of tears...tears of pride, thankfulness and appreciation and what not! I have a natural affinity towards PAF and always wanted (as a common facination in youth)to become an air fighter (but landed up in HR Consultant), also because one of my uncles was in PAF and served as GDP, Wing Commander Tayyab Hasany . I was a child in '71 and witnessed PAF sorties over Karachi....still thrills me. I watched you on TV this morning and decided to pay my tribute to you, dear sir. People like you are the pillers of this dwindling (hate to write this word for Pakistan) country, and I am sure that the strength of people like you will save this country. I love Pakistan and love its Armed Forces. You are hero of each and every aspirant of valor and excellence. May Allah bless you always, with health and happiness and with a prosperous life. InshaAllah, I will be locating and buying your new book Flight of the Falcon in Karachi. I wish I could have your signatures on this book.
One who admires & respects a sepoy & an officer equally...Long & Ever live..Pakistan!
S.Murtaza H. Hasany
0333-2291733 -
#48
Salaam Sir,
An exceptional and facinating reading, kudos to you for not only your courage and bravery in defending our GREAT COUNTRY but also for exposing the morally corrupt and characterless ruling elites. When in the States visiting your brother please come see us in Kansas. May Allah reward you for your selfless service to Pakistan and its defence. People like you give us hope for Pakistan as envisioned by Jinnah. Always the best!Hope to hear from you. -
#47
Got a reference to your website and really happy to see heroes like you on the www. I had a passion myself but luckily or unluckily failed to quality medical examination :). But really love to meet and hear from national heroes. Website is beautifully designed and built. Will get your book as well very soon. It's indeed a great initiative, you have really started a very good forum where we can hear from many other war and post war heroes. A lot of truth, sweet or bitter will come up :) but will be an eye opener. May Allah bless you health and prosperity. Ameen.
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#46
A Mr. malik has made comments which were tantamount to attack on my personality and general denigration of PAF pilots. His assertions about my colleagues were contrived and unjustified. i have requested the moderator of www.sajadhaider.com to ask Mr. Malik to contact me on phone or through E-Mail sajad.haider@gmail.com. He is welcome to meet me at any time and discuss his comments. His second comment as to why his comments were not posted is answered above. i will have no problem posting his comments as long as they are relevant to the book and not hearsay about professional men.
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#45
Dear Air Cdre
I read yo book within 15 days of its launching. I had to acquire it from Pakistan since I am located in Qatar. I enjoyed it thoroughly specially since I was a witness to most of the war experiences, both in 1965 & 71. Being from the Air Defence and located at Sakesar, I could see the entire air activity. I have never been able to understand why Air Cdre Saeedullah was positioned at Sakesar where the entire ops were being run by the professionals. If anyhing, he was a hindrene in operations. To start with, he could not even see the situatin boards and had to be given binoculars. Even after that he had to be told the meaning of each symbal on the board. Apart from that I am unable to comment about his role in post war PAF. Yes I was also witness to the RT fiasco on the flypast ehearsaals---it was patheic, to say the least.
Muhammad Zubair
Gp Capt(r) -
#44
Dear sir,↲just watching your interview on HUM TV. While getting inspired i am also searching the net and found your homepage. Will order your book as soon as possible.
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#43
Just finished reading the book - could not put it down once I started. Commend your courage and forthright behavior as a PAF officer.
Looking forward to the sequel. You must write it! I wish more of people of your generation came forward to record our difficult history.
Thank you for your service to Pakistan.
Imran Akram
Washington, DC
PS: Thanks for autographing my copy of the book. It was recently brought over from Pakistan by my father, your friend Maj Gen (R) Akram, VCGS during your GHQ stint. -
#42
Dear Sir,
Congratulation on your wonderful eye-opener. I look forward to your second book on the arm deals!! -
#41
Salams Sajad Haider sahib
My complements for the excellent effort, please keep up your good work and may Allah bless you.
Would appreciate keeping in touch with you via email professor.shamshad@gmail.com and exchange views and ideas.
I was the the unfortunate Captain in 1971 who was ordered to cut off all GHQ communications with our East wing.
Have always admired PAF and the work it does throughout. Presently am associated with Ensign Communique subsidiary www.ensigntutor.com which both are part of Shaheen Foundation.
Feel free to call me 111 367 446 ext 210 Mon - Fri 16:30 - 1930.
Till next do take care keep smiling and have a wonderful weekend.
Jazak Allah Khair -
#40
Hello sir,
I have started reading your book, its truly brilliant! I wish to one day become a combat pilot and this book is a revelation! I am 13 and I really admire your skill. -
#39
Dear Sir, Today I ve completed reading your book 'Flight of the Falcon' which i started a week ago. Will not say much as what you ve written is enough to take the veil off from those who are culprits of the nation. After completing the book, I kept on sitting for a while and thought for many minutes that is this the real picture of 6th Sept 1965, the day we celebrate as defense day. Had such blunders were not done by those who ve committed them, we would have been celebrating this as Kashmir Independence Day. Anyways, much cannot be written here but I would say that this book was an eye opener.
By profession Iam a banker and reside in Dubai. Iam an Ex-Petarian (Cadet College Petaro) and full of patriotism for my country. That was my dream to become GDP but couldnt fulfill it because of some personal concerns. Anyways, your uniform pics are great further your 3 marriages motivated me a lot :)
I thank you for writing such a wonderful book with all the hidden facts and am awaiting your next book detailing your business success.
Best Regards,
Mohsin Bilgrami
+97150-5054482
mohsin.bilgrami@gmail.com -
#38
Dear Sir
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your book specially because my late father Air Cdre M Yamin, one time secretary to the air board finds mention in it.
In case you are planning to publish a second edition, you may like to correct his name. He was M. Yamin and not Yameen Khan.
Thank you!
Brig (retd) Tughral Yamin
Islamabad -
#37
Dear Friends,
Your comments and feedback have been a constant source of encouragement to keep the pace going and we thank you.
Although a difficult decision, some comments have not been approved. You are invited to speak freely, while keeping a safeguard on the purpose and content. Since this is a public forum, it is accessible by people of all ages.
We would humbly request everyone to try and maintain a homogenous environment for all to share and read. Healthy debates are strong encouraged.
To contact the author directly, please use the 'Contact' link above.
Your understanding is appreciated.
Moderator for sajadhaider.com -
#36
Mr. Masood Shah on Friday, 22 May 2009 has passed a comment on my e-mail, i.e.
"Sarmad Hassan Sharif in his email to you mentions 1971 heros. Hello, Mr. Sharif, which madrassa imparted this history upon you?"
Mr. Sajjad Haider, with due respect I would like to submit my answer in front of the whole forum to Mr. Masood Shah.
"Mr. Masood Shah! First go and take some classes of English. If not then take this for a lesson.
Go again through my e-mail i.e. # 12 dated Tuesday, 19 May 2009 04:22. Now the review those two sentences which you picked up, and made the base to pass your comment on me.
'Instantly a feeling came in my heart to meet all the PAF heroes of 1965, 1971 and the Afghan War. I really feel honoured that i actually have contacted one of them, Mr. Sajjad Haider.'
Anyone with a good english background can easily understand that i have first mentioned my desire to meet all the PAF Heroes which have participated in various conflicts, and then mentioned Mr. Sajjad Haider as one of them.
Now, who has taken his education from any Madrassah, me or you, i leave it to each and every one going through these posts in this website.
Talking about my knowledge regarding the PAF, Mr. Masood Shah, i dont have to take any certificate from you as i know my capabilities and limitations, and by reading your comments i have judged your mental callibre. I challenge you for a showdown regarding any topic of PAF - Past, Present or Future - and i'm pretty much confident that i can beat you even with my hands tied." -
#35
Dear Sir Air Cmdr (R) Sajad Haider.
My work / home computers still have your historic September 6, 1965 pic with your Sqn. 19 folks. I salute you guys for your bravery. You were heroes; you are heroes and would be heroes.
I have not got the book yet but for sure I'll get it very soon as I requested somebody back at home to send me one. I'm sure this book would be a very good source of guidance for the young generation to know how our heroes defend our independence against the Cowardly Dushman, when we were sleeping and our heroes were up with the hawk eyes on Cowardly Dushman movements.
If you can please send me some pics of your self I'll really appreciate it.
Regards,
S.H.Manto
manto786@hotmail.com
Calgary, AB
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#34
AOA Sir Sajad.
Nice book to read. An eye-opener indeed.
Nowadays waiting for the book "The Crossed Swords" to be couriered to me. It was suggested by you sometime ago. I hope it would also help in completely clearing up the Fog surrounding my mind which is now not as thick as it was before reading your book. Thanks indeed for "Flight of the Falcon". -
#33
Hello Sir
Being a seeker of truth no matter how bitter, your narrative made me deep dive into our history where I firmly believe our future resides and is forged.
AM Noor Khan had always inspired me as a boy owing to my deep love for hockey and squash while growing up but to know the man through your lens was truly heartening. We have and will continue to craft many like him.
Today I had the great pleasure of presenting your book to Air Chief Marshal Sinha of the IAF here in Cairo where he resides. He’s a brilliant friend of mine although I am 40 years his junior!! We exchange books rather frequently.
I made it a point to highlight the cover illustration, stating that it was the famed Phatankot strike by the great squadron 19 of the PAF spearheaded by you, to which he responded, ‘you fool I know all about it, I was ducking for cover’. Right there I felt like a lion!!
Thank you for a turbulent yet wonderful passage navigated fantastically through the fog of war. Indeed we have been defeated inside out far too many times by feeble minds
Godspeed
Khan Niaz -
#32
Air Cdre (Rtd) Haider did a pretty decent job of identifying the short comings of our leaders during the 65 - 71 wars. Objectively speaking this book was a something like a 'redress of grievances' application.
Mr. Haider is critcical about the 22 rich families of Pakistan but he himself runs for the patronage / favors of the very same people(Bhutto,Bugti,Kasamali etc.) whenever the chips are down. I agree that he was victimized by the ACM Zafar but did he ever stop to think that there were many who were not fortunate enough to be friends with all these vampires (22 families).
The authors reputation for honestly is impecable but he has been known to be arrogant and vane throughout his carreer. Sajad haider maybe brave but a gentleman he is not. A Gentleman never discusses his lady friends but the author drops hints of his 'conquests' all along in the book. This was not expected of a man of character like yourself.
It would also be fair to mention that even though Air Cdre Haider paints the picture of Abbas Khattak, Musaf Mir, PQ Mehdi. Rahim Yousafzai as great pilots while they were young and idealists he sure does fail to mention that these gentlemen did collect their pound of flesh from this poor nation during their respective tenures.
Also, not to put down the profession of fighter pilots but these airmen are pampered and paid 35-40% more than the remaining poor sods to just do their duty. No fighter pilotv is owed any special treatment just because he risks his life everytime he takes a plane out for a spin. With all due respect a poor policeman/constable does the same when he walks out of his house everyday and neither he is pampered or paid as much as fighter pilots.
Even with all my criticism I still consider Sajjad Haider as a man who has the courage to speak truth to power. He may have his flaws but alas he is just a mere mortal like all of us and he has the right to give his side of the story. I do hope that he has the will and courage to write a sequel about the parasites in defense procurement in Pakistan.
Personally, I would like to sit down one day with Mr. Haider over a nice 'refreshing beverage' and talk about his life if he allows me to do that.
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#31
My Salamz sir,
i have read your book and to be errect in my uttering i was enthralled by the revelations. I am a son of a soldier(vetern of 1971 war) so i have keen interest in what goes on in military..... sir, i am a young pakistani who just graduated and i am fulled with patriotisim,i did my best to contact you as to fetch few moments from your presious time but in vain. so, here i leave my request addressing directly to you. i will wait for a positive response!!!
regards,
harris khan... (haris_k_9@hotmail.com is my e-mail I.D) -
#30
Sir, AOA! I have just started reading your book and it has dazzled me with the details, failures and successes of our armed forces. It is always the leaders who make or break a nation, win a war and lead people to great heights. The ordinary mortals are just cannon fodder.
My brother is an Air/Cdr in PAF and it is because of him that all GD(P)s are my heros.
You have written a book which begs that some heads should roll. What was Sargodha and Mauripur doing?
One point which i cannot understand. You said that Air Mrshls Asghar and Nur Khan had molded a great fighting force (PAF) yet as per your account the preemptive attacks were chaotic, except for Pathankot. Were the people responsible asked to explain?
Wish you all the best in life and hereafter. May Allah grant more people like you to this soil. You have been my hero and this book has raised you even higher.
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#29
I am reading your book, and finding answers to lot of questions I always wanted to ask. I respect you courage, and it is very moving to know that you care.
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#28
recently read & reviewed Flight of the Falcon....
...came upon something not in the book...wrote it down...
..reproducing it below...
‘Sajad Haider (SJ) saved my life…..I think.’
This incident will not figure in Nosey Haider’s memoirs - Flight of the Falcon.
All operational pilots must lead a flight of 2 in mock combat missions to qualify as Section Leaders. In late 1969, a fresh operational flying officer (F/O) from No. 14 Squadron stationed in PAF base Dhaka, was detailed to fly a check sortie with the redoubtable, then Wing/Commander Nosey Haider.
The Mission - Low level airfield strike.
Their Target – Mig -21 silhouette painted in the apron at a satellite airfield.
Mission Plan - low level ingress followed by a simulated rocket attack.
The F/O remembered that the navigation was on track, pull-up point - a bit close and attack angle - steep. Rather than abandon the attack, this F/O pressed on, as failure to bring accurate rocket attack gun camera cine (film) was not an option – for him! ‘Pull Out’, screamed Haider as the F/O merrily continued with the attack profile past prescribed safety regulations and a collision with ground was imminent. The F/O eventually pulled out, busting the minimum recovery attitude of 300, but after completing the simulated attack.
On return, Nosey simulated engine rough running emergency with the still alive, much shaken yet unrepentant F/O assuming the position of leader.
‘Pull up’, ordered the young F/O and announced the emergency engine recovery steps that should be taken.
‘No improvement’, came the reply, followed a little later by a doleful, ‘engine seized’.
‘Eject’ ordered the F/O since no emergency field was nearby,
‘Ejection seat not working’, pat came the reply.
F/O’s advice to prepare for a crash landing was complacently met with ‘frozen controls’.
An exasperated F/O racked his brains and then bade his unfortunate comrade farewell. Nosey called off the simulated emergency and assumed command of the formation. The flight landed safely.
The young F/O was hauled up for saying goodbye to his Squadron Commander in the subsequent debrief. ‘Gentlemen! This ****** fellow was sending me off to hell’, Nosey sputtered in mock anger. The F/O maintained he had no options left and could he (Nosey) suggest an alternative? The F/O was pulled apart for violating the minimum pullout height and reminded that without Nosey’s timely warning, he - (the F/O) - would have been the one being bidden an untimely – but well deserved farewell. Though the F/O’ s film camera, on assessment, showed that the attack was considered to be accurate, he was nevertheless grounded for 3 days for busting the minimum limit. He was, however, cleared as a Section Leader. “An idiot who puts his life on the line to achieve the mission, even a simulated one, has the germs of a true fighter jock- provided he lives long enough” – was Nosey’s parting shot.
Or words to that effect.
As narrated by my father – A/C (R)Jamal Hussain -the unfortunate young Flying Officer in this story, who did survive long enough to command an elite Fighter Squadron and a Fighter Base in the PAF. He is presently pushing boundaries as a media Defense Analyst.
The End
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#27
Just finished reading your book and being an avid lover of armed forces i have read quite a few works from different people regarding the role of armed forces in our history and their performances in the wars of 65 and 71.......but i can dictulmy proclaim that none has been as forthright and blunt as this one.......in my opinin all in all a beatuful read for the young people who want to know an unbiased version of our airforce history and its evolution since its inception....
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#26
I have not got the book yet, but from what I see here, it promises to be a good read. I used to think about the stories behind Husseini's paintings in the book 'Air Warriors of Pakistan' when I was still young, and now I will get to read the accounts from a man who lived those stories. - Nadir @ Bucknell University
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#25
Very interesting biography of yourself and an exciting account of PAF. Shows if nothing else how liberal Pakistan was in its hay days. Professional Officers working hard by day and enjoying a drink or the ladies after an honest day's work. You guys sure did work hard and played hard at your own time. . Oh the good old days of Karachi clubing by night, ! In my humble opinion , I will never see Pakistan like the yester years ever!
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#24
Very interesting biography of yourself and an exciting account of PAF. Shows if nothing else how liberal Pakistan was in its hay days. Professional Officers working hard by day and enjoying a drink or the ladies after an honest day's work. You guys sure did work hard and played hard at your own time. . Oh the good old days of Karachi clubing by night, ! In my humble opinion , I will never see Pakistan like the yester years ever!
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#23
Congratulations on the success of your book! We have been eagerly awaiting it for a long time now. I've just started reading the book - Looking forward to talking to you more in person about your experiences.
Take care - see you soon,
Noreen -
#22
Just started your book. My message to some other still alive responsibles is that stand up like Sajad Haider and say it, as it is the high time that 'Truth must be told' to the nation, enough of feeding lies and bloated egos, lets find our senses.
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#21
Sir,
Excellent book,makes you feel like a movie while reading.Your honesty and guts are visible.I just wish and pray our youth possess the patriotism that u had.Again thumbs up for the wholesome effort of penning down your memoirs.THIS NATION IS INDEBIT TO YOU SINCE ONCE AGAIN YOU HAVE STOOD OUT BEYOND THE CALL OF DUTY. -
#20
Dear Air Cmdr (R) Sajad Haider
When you were starfing & bombing the hell out of the Indians,in 1965, I was in Grade 5.I had the great honour of meeting you in Islamabad through Air Cmdr (R) Green. Have ordered your book online and cannot wait to commence reading.
Warm Regards
Abdul Malik
Toronto, Canada. -
#19
Hi Sajad, your long lost pal from Los Angeles chiming in! Your pics indicate you keeping fit and fine. FYI, your book has been ordered on line and will get it signed one day in the future.
Best regards -
#18
Chach!
Congrats on the book... I've seen hype about it on the internet already... Lookin forward to a signed copy for myself as well! Hope to see you soon!
Lots of Love
Ali Haider -
#17
Sarmad Hassan Sharif in his email to you mentions 1971 heros. Hello, Mr. Sharif, which madrassa imparted this history upon you?
I also curious regarding Mr. Faraz Hussain gem of a conclusion that " Many have been lost to the clutches of the even more deadly Secularists".
Wonder what his rationale is to call secularist deadly? Will he be surprised if he found out that Jinnah was really a secularist!
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