The Navy League celebrated the 84th birthdays of two distinguished naval veterans, Rear Admiral M. Aslam Mirza, HI(M) (Retd), and Captain M. A. A. Siddiqui, PN (Retd), on 14 October 2026 at its Karachi office. The gathering brought together senior and junior officers to honour their remarkable naval careers and lifelong contributions. The celebration reflected the League’s cherished tradition of recognising senior veterans, preserving naval fellowship and expressing affection, respect and prayers for their continued good health and happiness.
On 14 October 2026, The Navy League celebrated the 84th birthdays of Rear Admiral M. Aslam Mirza, HI(M) (Retd), and Captain M. A. A. Siddiqui, PN (Retd), at the Navy League Office, Karachi.
The occasion brought together senior and junior naval veterans to honour two respected colleagues. Both officers were presented with flower bouquets, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony in a cheerful atmosphere. Members exchanged memories of their naval days and extended warm birthday greetings.
The celebration continued a cherished Navy League tradition of honouring members aged over 80, recognising their contributions to the Pakistan Navy and maintaining the friendships developed during their years of service.
Rear Admiral M. Aslam Mirza, HI(M) (Retd)
Pioneer of Pakistan Navy Aviation
Born on 12 October 1942 in Lalamusa, Admiral Mirza studied at Islamia High School, D.J. Science College and Karachi University. A keen sportsman, he captained both his school hockey team and the Pakistan Navy hockey team.
Admiral Mirza was among the pioneering officers who established Pakistan Navy Aviation. He became its first flying instructor, the first Squadron Commander of the Sea King helicopter squadron and the first naval pilot to attain flag rank. He initiated helicopter flying training and personally trained 14 pilots.
His aviation experience included more than 750 hours of flying Army helicopters in support of operations in Balochistan, flood rescue in Multan, and rescue and casualty evacuation missions in the mountainous regions of Gilgit-Baltistan. For his safe and efficient flying, he received a Green Endorsement from the Chief of General Staff.
He commanded PNS Mukhtar and PNS Taimur, the latter earning the General Efficiency Shield during his command. His senior appointments included Commander Naval Aviation for four years, Commander North, Chief Staff Officer to COMPAK, Director General Training at Joint Staff Headquarters and Flag Officer Sea Training. He maintained an accident-free flying record throughout his aviation command assignments.
Recipient of Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Military), Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Military) and a Chief of the Naval Staff Letter of Commendation, Admiral Mirza also authored The Fly Boys, documenting the history and development of Pakistan Navy Aviation.
Captain M. A. A. Siddiqui, PN (Retd)
Distinguished Naval Officer and Maritime Law Specialist
Captain Siddiqui's family migrated from India in 1951. Educated in Karachi, he was studying at Karachi University when he joined the Pakistan Navy as a cadet aboard PNS Babur in November 1961. Following training at PMA Kakul and various naval establishments, he received his commission in 1965.
He participated in the 1965 War while serving aboard PNS Alamgir. His subsequent appointments included PNS Himalaya, PNS Zulfiqar and PNS Tariq. While serving aboard PNS Zulfiqar in 1968, he witnessed the survey of the Indus Delta, where Port Qasim was subsequently developed.
He attended a Junior Officers Course in the United States and was associated with the acquisition of Gearing-class ships. Alongside his naval career, he obtained an LL.B. degree from S. M. Law College, Karachi.
Promoted to Commander in 1980, he served in various operational, supply, training and administrative appointments, including SSO to COMPAK, Eastern Command, the Supply and Secretariat School, the Naval Stores Department and PN Dockyard.
In 1986, he was appointed Judge Advocate General at Naval Headquarters, where he dealt with naval regulations and Rules of Engagement at Sea. He authored A Naval Officer's Guide on International Law of the Sea, lectured at staff colleges and represented Pakistan at United Nations forums on maritime law.
He retired in 1995 after more than three decades of naval service. Affectionately known as the "Master at Arms," Captain Siddiqui enjoys the respect and affection of seniors and juniors alike. An enthusiastic member of the Navy League, he and his wife regularly participate in its inland and overseas tours. Their cheerful company and active involvement are greatly appreciated by fellow members.
Prayers and Good Wishes
The celebration concluded with heartfelt prayers from members for the good health, happiness, long life and continued well-being of both distinguished veterans.
Members prayed that Almighty Allah bless Admiral Mirza and Captain Siddiqui with many more years of good health, peace and happiness, surrounded by the love of their families and the companionship of fellow naval officers. Ameen.
The Navy League remains proud of its senior veterans, whose distinguished careers and continued association preserve the traditions, values and fellowship of the naval community.
Happy 84th Birthday to both distinguished veterans. May Allah grant them many more healthy and happy years.
