iFilm English honors Iranian war hero Abbas Babaee

August 6 marks the martyrdom anniversary of a war hero, fearless fighter pilot and symbol of devotion to his country, Captain Abbas Babaee.

iFilm English TV commemorated his life and legacy by airing ‘Passion to Fly’, a biographical series that pays tribute to his heroic sacrifices.

Martyr Babaee, born on December 5, 1950, rose rapidly through the military ranks after the Islamic Revolution.

Starting as a first lieutenant, he showed remarkable leadership and tactical acumen, leading to his promotion to colonel and eventually becoming the chief commander of the Isfahan air base.

His exceptional skills and dedication led him to reach the rank of Brigade General in just three years.

Babaee’s tenure as the Air Force commander during the Iraq-Iran War (1980-88) was marked by his inspirational leadership and strategic brilliance.

A pioneer in combat missions, he completed more than 60 successful operations from 1985 until his martyrdom in 1987.

With more than 3000 flying hours on various fighter aircrafts, he spent much of his time in flight operations or on the battlefields in the southwest of Iran.

Known for his resilience and innovation, he famously told a fellow officer, “Innovation is born out of limitations”, inspiring his comrades to persevere despite challenges such as the lack of replacement parts for their jets.

Babaee’s personal life was equally remarkable. His devotion were as vast as the skies he flew, always striving to fulfill what he believed was the will of Almighty Allah.

The devotion was evident when he predicted his martyrdom, telling a friend he would reach his ultimate goal on the day of Eid Al-Adha.

On August 6, 1987, at the age of 37, Major General Abbas Babaee achieved his aspiration, attaining martyrdom and cementing his legacy in the Iranian history.

His burial place in his hometown of Qazvin has become a shrine, a place of honor where people come to pay their respects to a true hero.

Martyre Babaee’s life and devotion continue to inspire Iranians to sacrifice for the greater good, reminding us all of the extraordinary impact one individual can have on a nation's history.