Dr. Helen Mary Roberts has achieved a milestone by being promoted to the rank of brigadier in the Pakistan Army Medical Corps, marking her as the first female brigadier of the Pak Army from the Christian community. The historic promotion highlights her personal dedication and service and the inclusive progress within the Pakistan Army.
First Female Brigadier of Pak Army: A Trailblazing Career
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a celebratory post on X, extended his sincere congratulations to Brigadier Roberts. “Brigadier Helen Mary Roberts is the first female Brigadier from a minority community in Pakistan. The entire nation, including me, congratulates her,” he stated, recognizing her exceptional achievement. Brigadier Roberts, who has served diligently as a pathologist in the Pakistan Army Medical Corps for 26 years, exemplifies the principles of merit and national representation.
The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) emphasized Brigadier Roberts’ promotion as a testament to the Pakistan Army’s meritocratic values. According to APP news agency, her advancement is seen as “another living example of merit and national representation” within the military.
Celebrating Inclusivity and Progress
Brigadier Roberts follows in the footsteps of other pioneering women in the Pakistan Army, such as Maj Gen Nigar Johar, who, in June 2020, shattered another glass ceiling by becoming the first female officer to be promoted to the rank of lieutenant general. Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar, the then-ISPR Director General, announced her appointment as the first female surgeon general of the Pakistan Army, further illustrating the progressive strides being made towards gender equality within the military.
Dr. Helen Mary Roberts’ promotion is a landmark achievement, reflecting both her personal dedication and the Pakistan Army’s commitment to promoting an environment of merit and inclusivity; this historic moment not only honors her exemplary service but also paves the way for future generations of women and minority communities in the military.
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