Cecil Chaudhry not only defended Pakistan throughout his military career, but also has been involved in the education of many new generations of Pakistani youth, and was an influential figure in Pakistani national life. During the 1965 and 1971 wars, Chaudhry was a very notable PAF pilot. The loss of his mentor Squadron leader Rafiqui, and friend Yunus – shot down in front of him during a mission in the 1965 war- greatly affected Chaudhry, and saw him fight the reminder of the war with a fierce determination and exceptional dedication. While on a mission in December of 1971, Squadron leader Chaudhry’s aircraft was damaged by enemy fire. He escaped with injuries. Nevertheless he managed to fight on valiantly, and after reaching the Sargodha base safely shot down an enemy aircraft in the exact area where he himself was nearly shot down. He went on to command No. 9 squadron, and the Combat Commander’s School. His contributions to Pakistan did not end there, however; he went on to hold the post of Principle at St. Anthony’s School in Lahore where he ‘continued to turn out scores of motivated young men who are bubbling with zeal and enthusiasm to serve their country with dedication, pride and honour’, until his death in April 2012. Even in death, his name lives on – the Cecil and Iris Chaudhry Foundation continued to carry out interfaith and educational work, and his son – Cecil Chaudhry Jr. – continues to be a well-renowned activist in this field.
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