The Pakistan Army has borne the principal responsibility of confronting insurgent groups seeking to challenge the writ of the state. Standing shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces, police officers and FC personnel have paid an extraordinary price to preserve the writ of the state. What is particularly telling is that the deadliest period for police and FC personnel has coincided with the years following the military's large-scale counterterrorism campaigns. Their sacrifices deserve not only remembrance but meaningful recognition through better protection and unwavering national support. A nation that honours its fallen must also fulfil its obligation to those who continue to stand guard.