RAWALPINDI: Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider’s 53rd martyrdom anniversary, is being observed on Friday. His legacy reminds us that no cause is nobler than defending the motherland. He bravely fought in the major wars of 1965 and 1971.
During the 1971 War, Major Shabbir Sharif, already recognised by the Sitara-e-Jurat for his bravery in the 1965 War, was assigned a critical mission to capture a key high ground near the Sulemanki Headworks. On the night of December 5-6, he showed extraordinary bravery by engaging in hand-to-hand combat, killing Major Narain Singh, the commander of India’s 4 Jat Regiment.
The following day, December 6, Major Shabbir Sharif heroically defended the captured position against multiple enemy counterattacks. Using a recoilless rifle, he destroyed advancing enemy tanks and held his ground with unwavering resolve. During the intense battle, he was struck by a tank round and embraced martyrdom, leaving behind a legacy of unmatched courage and dedication to the defence of the homeland.
Major Shabbir Sharif was born on April 28, 1947, in Kunjah, Gujrat District. He joined the Pakistan Army in 1964 at the age of 21. He was the elder brother of former Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif and the nephew of Major Aziz Bhatti, another Nishan-e-Haider recipient.
Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed remains the only individual in Pakistan’s history to be honoured with both the Nishan-e-Haider and the Sitara-e-Jurat for his unmatched courage and ultimate sacrifice. The Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Service Chiefs, and Armed Forces paid tribute to him, reaffirming his place as a symbol of bravery and patriotism in the nation’s history.
President and PM pay tribute to Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif have honoured the legacy of Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider, on his 53rd martyrdom anniversary with heartfelt tributes.
In separate messages, both leaders praised Major Shabbir Sharif’s unparalleled courage and dedication to the defence of the nation.
President Zardari remarked that the entire nation takes pride in brave officers like Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed, whose sacrifices will always be remembered. He affirmed that the nation deeply values the contributions of its martyrs and honours their ultimate sacrifices.
PM Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Major Shabbir Sharif’s inspiring example for the younger generation. He noted that Major Shabbir Sharif’s unwavering love for the homeland and willingness to lay down his life for its defence serve as a timeless symbol of patriotism and valour.
The nation collectively commemorates Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed, whose sacrifice inspires generations and remains a beacon of courage and dedication.
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