Celebrating the Diamond Jubilee of Pakistan Armed Forces Magazine, HILAL

As I sit down to pen my thoughts on the diamond jubilee of Pakistan Armed Forces’ Hilal Magazine, I am overwhelmed with mixed emotions. For me, it was a remarkable journey from 2011 to 2015 to work as an Editor of this prestigious and historical publication, filled with challenges, triumphs, and countless cherished memories. 
One vivid memory that stands out in my association with Hilal Magazine was when I called the magazine office for the first time to submit my article for publication in 2010. I was then serving as a Gunner Officer in a Directorate at GHQ (General Headquarters). Never in my dreams did I ever think while speaking with Lieutenant Colonel (Later Brigadier) Tahir Mehmood, the then Editor, that I would one day be posted to ISPR (Inter Services Public Relations) Directorate and appointed as his successor. Brigadier Tahir Mehmood subsequently became the Chief Editor and retired as the Director of Publication Division from ISPR. His contributions to the transformation of Hilal Magazine into its present shape are immense, as he mentored my team and me in the uplift of the magazine.  
Hilal is a monthly bilingual magazine of the Pakistan Armed Forces with a long and rich history dating back to 1948. Initially launched as a weekly magazine in 1948 from Malir with the name of Mujahid, the magazine is honored to carry felicitation messages by the Founder of Pakistan and other top civil and military leadership in its initial editions. The magazine grew with Pakistan and recorded historical impressions and events from the 1950s onward. While going through the archives of the magazine, one gets a chance to read many unique events which would otherwise be lost in history. 
The magazine's name was changed to Hilal in 1951, and it became a publication, printed twice a week. In October 1952, the magazine became a daily for a few years and again reverted to the weekly status in 1964. In August 2007, the magazine expanded to embrace the publication of an English edition alongside Urdu and was published as a single monthly bilingual magazine. 
However, as the magazine got richer in content with a widening reader base, a need was felt to publish it separately in Urdu and English, which commenced from November 2014 onward. 

Hilal Magazine is a testament to excellence, serving as an invaluable source of knowledge, inspiration, and connection for the military community and beyond. Each issue is a meticulously crafted masterpiece, thoughtfully curated to inform, educate, and engage readers with a deep understanding of the Armed Forces' triumphs, challenges, and the spirit that defines their service. From its captivating cover design to its insightful articles, the magazine captures the essence of the Armed Forces, showcasing our soldiers' dedication, bravery, and unwavering commitment. Its pages come alive with stories that resonate, voices that inspire, and perspectives that broaden our understanding of the sacrifices and achievements of our Armed Forces personnel. Through its engaging features, informative interviews, and thought-provoking analysis, the magazine fosters a sense of unity, instilling pride and a shared purpose among its readers. 

From its captivating cover design to its insightful articles, the magazine captures the essence of the Armed Forces, showcasing our soldiers' dedication, bravery, and unwavering commitment. Its pages come alive with stories that resonate, voices that inspire, and perspectives that broaden our understanding of the sacrifices and achievements of our Armed Forces personnel. Through its engaging features, informative interviews, and thought-provoking analysis, the magazine fosters a sense of unity, instilling pride and a shared purpose among its readers. 

When I assumed the Editor of Hilal English role, I knew I had a profound responsibility. The magazine holds a special place in the hearts of our Armed Forces and the people of Pakistan. I was acutely aware of the legacy I was entrusted with and the duty to uphold the values and traditions that this magazine represents.
One of the most memorable aspects of my journey as Editor has been the opportunity to interact with our Armed Forces personnel, especially the families of Shuhada. Their stories, experiences, and unwavering commitment to our nation have left an indelible mark on my soul. Whether it was listening to the accounts of soldiers on the battlefield, sailors navigating treacherous waters, or airmen soaring through the skies, each encounter reaffirmed my belief in the extraordinary individuals who safeguard our borders.
When Hilal Magazine was first published 75 years ago, Pakistan was still in its infancy, facing numerous challenges on its path to nationhood. In those formative years, our Armed Forces emerged as the defenders and custodians of our nation's security, and Hilal Magazine became a beacon of hope, knowledge, and inspiration for those serving in uniform and the citizens they protect. Armed Forces Hilal Magazine became a platform for these brave men and women to share their journeys, triumphs, and sacrifices. Through their firsthand accounts, readers were given a glimpse into the lives of our soldiers, understanding the challenges they face and the unyielding determination with which they serve. These encounters deepened my appreciation for the sacrifices our Armed Forces make and their unwavering dedication to their duty to protect our nation.
As an Editor, I also had the privilege of working closely with a team of talented individuals whose unwavering commitment to excellence was both inspiring and humbling. Every team member played a crucial role in the magazine's success, from the writers who meticulously crafted each article to the designers who brought the pages to life. The camaraderie, creativity, and shared passion for honoring our Armed Forces created an environment where the magazine thrived.
However, this journey was not without its challenges. Balancing the need to inform, inspire, and entertain our readers while maintaining the integrity and sensitivity required in reporting on national security matters was a delicate task. The responsibility of ensuring accurate and unbiased reporting weighed heavily on my shoulders, knowing that our magazine had a significant impact on shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of unity among our Armed Forces and the citizens of Pakistan.
Throughout the years, Hilal Magazine has evolved to embrace the changing landscape of media and technology. From its humble beginnings as a print publication, Hilal Magazine has adapted to the digital age, leveraging the power of online platforms to reach a wider audience. This transition has allowed us to connect with the younger generation, fostering a sense of patriotism, respect, and admiration for our Armed Forces, ensuring that the magazine remained a relevant and trusted source of information and inspiration.
As we look towards the future, Armed Forces Hilal Magazine stands poised to continue its legacy of excellence. The challenges this country faces may change, but the spirit of our Armed Forces and the importance of their stories remain constant. I sincerely hope that the magazine will continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration, fostering a sense of unity, pride, and respect among our Armed Forces personnel and the people of Pakistan.

The writer is a former Editor of Hilal English Magazine.
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