Field marshal, services chiefs pay tribute to Major Shabbir Sharif on martyrdom anniversary

• Nishan-e-Haider recipient also earned Sitara-e-Jurat in 1965.
• ISPR recalls his role in securing key post near Sulemanki in 1971.
• He repelled attacks, destroyed tanks before embracing martyrdom.

Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, solemnly commemorated the 54th martyrdom anniversary of Major Shabbir Sharif, whose unmatched bravery and devotion to duty remain an enduring symbol of national pride.

Major Sharif was posthumously awarded Pakistan’s highest military honour, the Nishan-e-Haider, in recognition of his extraordinary bravery during the 1971 Pakistan-India war.

Major Sharif, who also earned the Sitara-e-Jurat for gallantry during the 1965 War, distinguished himself again in the 1971 war when entrusted with securing a strategically vital position near the Sulemanki Headworks, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

On the night of December 5-6, he led his troops with exceptional courage, engaging the enemy at close quarters and eliminating Major Narain Singh, commander of the attacking 4 Jat Regiment.

Throughout December 6, he fearlessly thwarted multiple enemy counterattacks, personally taking out advancing tanks with a recoilless rifle. While steadfastly holding the captured objective and defending it against persistent assaults, he embraced martyrdom when struck by an Indian tank round.

His extraordinary leadership under fire, uncompromising commitment to the motherland, and ultimate sacrifice embody the finest traditions of the Pakistan Army. Major Shabbir's heroism continues to illuminate the path for all who serve the nation.

The armed forces reaffirmed their deep respect and gratitude to all martyrs whose sacrifices safeguard Pakistan's sovereignty and security. Their legacy of courage and resilience remains eternally preserved in the nation’s collective memory.