Pakistan: April 8, 2009. (PCP) The government of Pakistan awarded a gallantry award to Martyr Major Sarmas Rauf on Pakistan Day celebrations. Major Rauf was fighting terrorists in South Waziristan of Pakistan tribal area leading his regiment of Pakistan Armed Forces. During his posting in Wanna, he died during fights with insurgents on September 13, 2007. The Christian community in Pakistan have praised Major Sarmas Rauf (Shaheed) valour and sacrifice for country. In different messages to Mrs. Asther Sarmas by Pakistani Christians have paid homage to services of her husband and urged leaders of Christian civil society groups to organize services to recognize Major Rauf services. Meanwhile, Mr. Ashknaz Emmanuel have clarified that in awarding Tamga-e-Basalat to Major Sarmas Rauf (Shaheed) by government of Pakistan was recommended by Pakistan Army on his bravery in fighting militants in volatile tribal area of Pakistan nor by a Christian federal minister who heads minorities ministry. Pakistan Christian Congress PCC have extended message to Mrs. Asther Rauf cherishing heroic life of her husband.