As a frequent traveler I am quite accustomed to being picked up from the airport on time by my usual rent-a-car drivers. Coincidentally, due to some miscommunication I was left stranded at the Lahore airport today.

Because I was in a rush and probably seemed like it too, an old man approached me and offered a ride in his cab. My elderly cab driver turned out to be a war hero from the 1965 war, non-gazette Retired Officer Abdul Razzaq.

At 75 years of age, the veteran now picks up passengers on a daily basis from the Lahore airport in an effort to make an honest living. Admittedly, his driving was a bit slow but I found the usual mundane cab ride interesting because of the many war stories celebrating the bravery of his platoon.

I learned that 33 of the brave men he served with were martyred in the '65 war and he was one of the very few lived to tell the stories of that war. These heroes defended our nation and gave their lives in the process to allow us the freedom that we enjoy today. Hearing the stories proudly narrated by Officer Abdul Razzaq has restored my faith in the Pakistan army.

Should any of you ever be in need of a ride in Lahore, Officer Abdul Razzaq can be reached at 0300-4697826. His white Suzuki Margalla though not in immaculate condition, is comfortable and I guarantee that his stories are far better than a ride in a fancier car.

Credit: Hamza Raza

        An Inspiring Personality -Abdul Razzaq, Pakistan 

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