Pakistan’s armed forces on Friday observed the 54th martyrdom anniversary of Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed, the Nishan-e-Haider recipient whose bravery in the 1971 war remains one of the most celebrated chapters in the country’s military history.
Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu paid tribute on behalf of the armed forces, recalling his courage, leadership, and sacrifice.
Major Shabbir Sharif was awarded the Nishan-e-Haider for his heroism in the 1971 Pakistan-India war. He had earlier earned the Sitara-e-Jurat in the 1965 war, making him one of the most decorated officers in the country’s history.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Major Shabbir was tasked with capturing and holding a key position near the Sulemanki Headworks. On the night of December 5–6, 1971, he led his men from the front and fought the enemy at close range, killing Major Narain Singh, the commander of India’s 4 Jat Regiment.
Throughout the next day, he repelled repeated Indian counterattacks and destroyed several advancing tanks using a recoilless rifle. He continued to hold the captured post under intense fire until he was martyred after being hit by a tank round.
The ISPR said his fearless leadership, devotion to duty, and refusal to abandon his position reflected the highest traditions of the Pakistan Army. His sacrifice, it added, remains a guiding light for all soldiers of the nation.
The armed forces also renewed their tribute to all martyrs who have laid down their lives for Pakistan’s security and sovereignty, saying their courage and sacrifices will always remain honoured in the country’s collective memory.
