Armed Forces Day
November 21, Friday
History of the holiday
The date was chosen in memory of the events of the Liberation War of 1971. 21 November is considered the day when the three branches of the armed forces – the army, the air force and the navy of Bangladesh – carried out joint operations against Pakistani troops for the first time. This moment became a symbol of unity, coordination and the formation of independent national defense forces.
Importance of the holiday
Armed Forces Day emphasizes the importance of the army and other branches of the military in:
* protecting the sovereignty of the country;
* maintaining internal stability;
* participating in international peacekeeping missions;
* providing assistance to the population during natural disasters.
Bangladesh is one of the leading countries in the world in terms of the number of military personnel involved in UN operations, which also makes this date a day of recognition of their international contribution.
How the holiday is celebrated
Festivities take place throughout the country and include:
* parades and ceremonies at military bases;
* laying wreaths at the monument to the martyrs of the Liberation War;
* meetings of senior military leadership with the president and the prime minister;
* demonstrations of military equipment and public events;
* cultural programs and thematic exhibitions;
* special television and radio broadcasts about the role of the armed forces.
Interesting facts
* The armed forces of Bangladesh were created during the war for independence and developed alongside the formation of the state.
* The country has participated in UN peacekeeping missions since 1988.
* Women actively serve in army, air force and navy units, holding command positions.
* The military regularly provides essential assistance in combating floods and cyclones, which are frequent natural threats in the region.
Armed Forces Day in other years
- 2021 November 21, Sunday
- 2022 November 21, Monday
- 2023 November 21, Tuesday
- 2024 November 21, Thursday
- 2026 November 21, Saturday