Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Monday visited the residence of the '65 war veteran Squadron Leader Arshad Sami Khan and father of renowned singer Adnan Sami Khan, who died of cancer last week. Arshad Sami Khan died at the Kokilaben-Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, where he was being treated for pancreatic cancer.
Prime Minister Gilani met the family members including widow Naureen Sami Khan, son Junaid Sami Khan, brother Rashid Sami and other family members and expressed his deep sorrow and grief over the death of Arshad Sami. He offered 'Fateha' and remained with the family for some time.
He paid rich tributes and lauded his strong courage and bravery for the country. He said Pakistan will long remember the services he rendered. During 1965 War, Squadron Leader Arshad Sami Khan flew the maximum combat missions from Peshawar. His enthusiasm and aggressive spirit was of the highest order and was responsible for igniting the spirit of competition amongst other pilots in its most effective form, a statement issued earlier by the PAF said.
Arshad Sami led formations into the battle area with exemplary determination and brought back excellent results. He was credited with one aircraft, 15 tanks and 22 vehicles destroyed, plus eight tanks and 19 vehicles damaged and two heavy guns destroyed.
Squadron leader Arshad Sami Khan was awarded Sitara-i-Jurat for his outstanding devotion to duty and bravery. He also served as ADC to President Ayub Khan, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Yahya Khan, and Protocol Officer to Benazir Bhutto. He also served as Secretary Culture.