Unseen Photograph's of Heroes of Pakistan

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An Unseen Photograph of Capt. Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed - N.H

Image Courtesy : Capt. Karnal SHER KHAN Shaheed - Nishan -e- Haider (The Brave Son of Mother Land)

 

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Havildar Imam Hanif from Platoon No.6 of B Company 6FF was one of the most reliable comrades of Major Shabbir Shareef. He recalls his memories.

November 29,
1971 Sulemanki Sector
Platoon No.6 of B Company was digging trenches when a fighting patrol of 35 Indian Soldiers reached the area. They started marching towards Pakistani Forward Defence Line, Havildar Imam Hanif was the Senior most at the moment from Pakistani side.
"Hey you! Return or we will open fire", he shouted at the Indians. Instead of returning, they started abusing Pakistani soldiers and returned after sometime.

Major Shabbir, the Company Commander was briefed by the Havildar on the wireless about the situation.
"Why didn’t you open fire after you warned them? Don't you know how to fire a machine gun?", Major scolded havildar.
"Next time if they do so, I don't want any of them going back alive. Do you understand?”.

November 30, 1971
A patrol of 35 Indians entered the Pakistani side again and started bashing Pakistani soldiers again. Without any warning Imam Hanif ordered to fire. 1 Indian Havildar and 4 soldiers were killed at the spot while rest of them ran away. Imam Hanif told his Major the whole story.
"Shabash Jawan, next time don't let anyone go, even you have to call artillery fire", patting his back, Major said.

December 03, 1971
After a storming raid, B Company penetrated into enemy area and now was holding high ground. When Major Major Shabbir was keenly observing the area, he noticed something on a tall tree in the enemy area.
"Imam go to Subedar Noor Muhammad (30 Heavy Regiment) and bring the binoculars", he ordered me.
As he was observing the tree he saw an enemy Artillery observer (OP) on it. He ordered me to take Lance Naik Lal Wazir and shoot that OP. Imam went with Lal Wazir and Sepoy Resham Khan to a nearby ridge, he shot the OP. Op disappeared into the leaves of tree and was supposed to be dead. They came and reported it to the Major, who was still observing the tree. After few seconds he saw that the OP was still there. Now he took the rifle himself and shot the OP. Sending us to confirm the death he ordered us to collect everything whatever we canget from the OP. Maps,value able info of enemy artillery and a fixed frequency wireless set were recovered from the enemy. This wireless later proved to be a useful thing as its transmission showed us that what formation enemy is going to take while attacking. The OP was confirmed kill this time as the bullet shot by Major went through his throat.

December 04, 1971
It was midnight when Major Shabbir and Imam were taking a round of the positions when he found a rifle trench occupied by Sepoy Mushtaq and the Machine gun trench by sepoy Sadiq, both sleeping with their hands still on the trigger. A snake was crawling on the ammunition strap of MG. Major ordered me to hold the hand of Sadiq so that he can’t fire in a state of panic. Having done this he caught the head of snake with his hands and crushed it with his boot.
"Send this snake to Colonel Ali Imam (commanding officer) right before the breakfast and tell him that we can kill every type of enemy", with a smile he said and went away for the round.

On the morning of 6 December, Imam Hanif got severely wounded by an Indian Tank MG fire. His right elbow was injured moreover a shell landed in his bunker. Imam was transferred to regimental aid post and further to CMH. Where on the evening of 7 December he received the news of his beloved Major's shahadat.
Team “Our Heroes Need Their Identity Back “would like to thank Mr. Imtiaz Akram for providing this unseen Photograph of Maj Shabbir Sharif N.H

An Unseen Photograph of Lalak Jan Shaheed N.H with his brother Gul Sambar .

Major Syed Riaz Manzoor Shaheed (Sitara-i-Jurat)
10 Baloch
Somalia UN Mission

5 June 1993 was a routine calendar day like any other day. But not for Pakistan Army and men and officers of 10 Baloch Regiment. It had in its womb the premonitions that a Peacekeeping Force could never construe to be of any meanings detrimental to their mission as well as existence. But as the day unfolded, the tragedy unfolded too, making the accounts of a heroic tale that was written by the blood of Pakistani soldiers in the line of duty. A company size strength of 10 Baloch Regiment was assigned the task of carrying out an inspection of the 'Weapons Depot' owned by General Farah Aideed, in line with agreed upon commitment. Located in southern Mogadishu on 21 October Road, the site was reported and confirmed to be a neutral place by United Nations Staff. The unsuspecting peacekeepers of Pakistan Army, rather imbued with the spirit of avoiding clash and combat, made to the site. The roadblocks, gun brandishing and jeering by the unruly mobs enroute, however, signalled the antagonism all around. Avoiding to do anything that could incite or provoke the situation, 10 Baloch set about to inspecting the cache.

While the team was calmly into the task, the unprovoked fury unleashed. Militia of General Farah Aideed were cunning enough to wait and time their well planned assault on the troops of United Nations/Pakistan Army. With a massive fire of small arms, machine guns and RPGs from well-hidden positions, a battalion of gangsters ambushed the Pakistani troops, who not only reorganized themselves well, but reacted back with striking punch to them. The sense of danger and will to persist was inbuilt in the combat response of our troops. The fighting ensued and the casualities, too. Major Syed Riaz Manzoor Shaheed (Sitara-i-Jurat) was commissioned in 10 Baloch Regiment in 1984. The professional standards earned by him over his highly demanding, albeit brief career speak of the professionalism of an infantry soldier. He was chosen for the formidable part of the operation, as a recue and evacuation commander for the beleagured comrades at the combat site. While the vulnerability was a given, his ability to outdo it was also a given. Sense and sacrifice were to be his swords in surmounting the challenge. He employed both and did the miracle.

Fighting his way through upto the combat site, Major Riaz effectively engaged the enemy combatants, carefully avoiding the shield of ordinary women and children that distracted the peacekeepers, and quitened the hostile guns. The toll was expected and expectation came true. While leading the rescue and evacuation operation from the front, the commander willingly exposed himself to the danger. What else can be the choice of a true commander in the face of the danger; he has to grapple it to down it. Major Riaz prevailed upon the danger, resued the comrades, evacuated the wounded and surrounded to safety but not without cost. His courage cost him the bullets in the chest; a true sign of an honourably fallen soldier. 24 soldiers and one officer of Pakistan Army laid their lives for the sake of humanity and country. In recognition of his unsurpassed courage in the face of the danger and his supreme sacrifice, this 'son of soil' was honoured with the prestigious operational gallantry award, 'Sitara-i-Jurat', posthumously. His manly portrait adorns the wall of tea bar of 10 Baloch Regiment but his soul must be in the blessed hall of heaven. Pakistan Army and the nation are proud of and grateful to their Shuhada, forever.

On his return from Canada after completion of Staff College Course, Major Aziz Bhatti brought a car with him. When he started construction of his house, he sold the car and bought a moped.

His friend Major S.M Zaidi once said "Sir you shouldn’t have sold the car, it is not only a convenient ride but also a status symbol."

Major Bhatti replied, "Look Zaidi! The first part you said is considerable that it is a good ride. But I don't consider material things like a car to do anything with my status".

He kept using the moped all his life. It is preserved at Army Museum Rawalpindi.

The platoon commander Captain Slaeem Ishaq (Later Maj Gen) was replaced. He was a tall handsome and soft natured guy but strict in discipline; he was favorite of every cadet. Every cadet of Tariq platoon was tense regarding the arrival of new platoon commander. War veteran of 1965, recipient of sword of honor, Sitara e Jurrat, a strict disciplinarian and known as ڈشکرا by his fellows and دس نمبریا by his commanding officer. With his particular reputation he entered PMA and soon became the center of attention of every cadet. Well built, strong, piercing eyes and thick but trimmed moustache were enough to tell cadets that their leader is indeed a tough guy and the training by him proved to be even tougher for the young chaps. This commander insisted on nothing but best of the best. Rigging, pushing and pressing always to bring out their best. He instead of giving any motivational speech to the cadets clearly told the cadets that he is going to relegate every cadet who is not going to perform according to his standards. It was clear to the cadets that each and every moment of their training is going to be an uphill task.

It was the withdrawal exercise; their platoon commander was watching and shouting at them loudly. As they were moving forward, there was a pool of mud in their way which made the movement slow.

"Be quick you lazy bums"

"Move forward sleepy heads"

"Why are you meditating during work you chickens?"

Their platoon commander was observing and shouting at them. Though it was a withdrawal exercise but the platoon Commander wanted to make it aggressive as well.
Beret, mirror shining shoes and crisp uniform, the platoon commander was looking very smart. Though cadets were trying to give their best, but it was not according to the standards of their commander. "Hey look here", he shouted and to everyone's surprise, the platoon commander jumped in the pool of mud with his crisp uniform and crossed it in the manner which he wanted his chaps to. Now everyone understood and followed the path of their leader.

It was not just the physical training; he also focused the most on the character building and ethical development of his cadets.

"I will relegate each of you if I ever come to know that you have done some unethical thing or were dishonest. I don't care even if you all have to go home.” was the warning which cadets always heard.

"Never hide anything from me. Even if you have someone's blood on your hands. I expect you to come to me and tell me the truth.....and let me handle the rest", was his second advice they always got.

One day when he was going to Rawalpindi, near Haripur, he stopped as bus was parked at the roadside and a cadet was fighting with the conductor and bus driver at the same time. Driver was bleeding from nose and the conductor was trying to suppress the pain as well. Whereas the shirt of the cadet was torn.

"Stop everyone", he shouted, coming out from his car.

The fight stopped and he took the cadet with him to his car.

"What was the reason?” he asked the cadet. "Sir both driver and conductor were misbehaving with a poor passenger. I tried to stop them and they forced me to get down, so I thrashed them", cadet replied.

"Shabash! Always stand for the right and fight the enemy. Never care how huge the enemy is", tapping his shoulder, his platoon commander said.

"Take Position"

"Prepare to throw"

"THROW"

Were the commands given by training staff of Nowshera field firing school. The platoon commander was cautiously watching his boys, wearing a steel helmet and goggles. Two of his cadets were in the trench now.

"Take position", staff shouted.
"Prepare to throw", Boys pulled out the safety pins.

"THROW". This was the point when safety lever was to be released and grenade to be tossed in the air and after 4 seconds the HE-36 grenade would explode. But unfortunately while throwing, the grenade fell in the trench by one of the cadets, while the safety handle released. There were few seconds in explosion, the platoon commander was observing the situation he rushed towards the trench, picked up the grenade from trench and tossed it in the air, the grenade exploded instantly. Cadet received minor injuries while platoon commander received a shrapnel on his steel helmet as he leaned over his cadet to protect him from any incoming shrapnel.

Finally, the training was complete. Everyone was tense to consider himself relegated as they never saw their platoon commander happy from their performance. When the names were announced, everyone was surprised that no one was relegated. Moreover the sword of honor was also won by one of his Cadets (Later Major General) Shahid Aziz. This was the time when the cadets saw a bright smile under the thick moustache of their platoon commander, who later embraced Shaahadat in the war of 1971 and received Nishan e Haider, setting another bright example for his followers.

The world knows this bright star as Major Shabbir Shareef Shaheed. (Sword of Honor, Sitara e Jurrat, Nishan e Haider).

In the Picture: Platoon Commanders at PMA Kakul 1969 Maj Shabir Sharif Shaheed, NH & SJ (6FF) Winner of Sword of Honour 29th PMA Long Course & Maj Fazle Qadir, TBt, later Brig (9FF) Winner of Sword of Honour 25th PMA Long Course
Photograph Courtesy: Abdullah Khan

09 September 1965
CMH Kharian
In a state of boredom, the young Lieutenant was lying on his bed in CMH. About five days ago, he was with his men, conducting a raid, unleashing hell on enemies and advancing in the area of Troti. While advancing a bomb splinter wounded his right arm. Instead of going back to RAP (Regimental Aid Post) and getting his injury treated, he took out his field dressing from his pouch and wrapped it around his wounded arm. Forgetting about the injury, he kept on moving forward, providing valuable information to the troops and giving lethal blows to the enemy, with the bomb splinter still in his arm. Days later, his adjutant Major Anwar, noticed the paleness on his face and difficulty to move his arm. This was evident that there is something wrong with him. Major called him and saw that there is a dusty field dressing on the lieutenant's arm which looked old. Major Anwar removed the bandage and to his surprise, the bomb splinter was still in his arm. Major ordered the young man to go to Chak Kirpal where ADS (Advance Dressing Section) was established but ADS transferred the Lieutenant to the CMH as the wound needed treatment beyond dressing.
Now he was lying on his bed in state of idleness. Getting irritated on the situation as his men were shedding their blood in the battle field and he was resting in the hospital. He wanted to join the battle but the rules and regulations were forcing him to stay in hospital as his wound was severe.
As per schedule, doctor came to the ward, attended him and continued the round. But the lieutenant jumped up and went to the washroom as he had a plan. Breaking the window and making a passage, he left the hospital without any formal documents and went to his unit.
Reporting on duty, he went to his adjutant Major Anwar, who was stunned to see him just after three days of his injury. He himself sent the lieutenant to the hospital after seeing the terrible wound and expected his release from the hospital after a month. But just after three days the young man was standing in front of him, having his arm in the sling. Major took him to the CO Colonel Iqbal who was also surprised to see him.
"Who released you?” colonel asked him. But the lieutenant didn't answer.
"Where is the discharge slip of CMH?” he asked again. Lieutenant remained silent again.
"Look young man, your full arm will have to be amputated if the infection spreads", colonel advised him.
"Sir I can't rest on the bed while my men are already in the Battle zone. I don't care about my arm, I will fight in a serious voice, the lieutenant answered.
Colonel knew that the boy is stubborn and will never be convinced.
"Go to the A company and raise the morale of soldiers", colonel ordered him.
The company commander Major Riaz Hussain Pervez got injured in a battle and was now in CMH. So, the command was transferred to the lieutenant.
14 September 1965
B Company was advancing to capture an enemy held village "Kala Rawan Da"کالا راواں دا. A company was sent to stay on the upper ground and provide fire support only if asked. Colonel Iqbal was observing the area with binoculars when he noticed someone with the advance party. Having a sten gun in the left hand, while right hand in a cloth sling which was covered with mud to camouflage its white color. Colonel thought for a moment that it was only the lieutenant who had his right arm injured and he advised him to stay in reserve, who else could it be with the sling? He sent someone to call him. When he came closer, he was surprised to see that it was the same lieutenant.
"Young man I know how eager you are to fight with the enemy, but you are injured. You don't need to go to the front. Go to your men and do what I have ordered", colonel said his strictly.
"Yes sir", in a compelled manner, the lieutenant said and marched back to his lines as it was not his nature to watch war like an armed spectator but to be the man of action himself.
For the rest of battle days, he kept the morale of his jawans up and did a great job in his sector.
Later the brave lieutenant was awarded Sitara e Jurrat for his acts of valor and got promoted to the rank of Captain. Today the world knows the brave young lieutenant as Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed (Sitara e Jurrat, Nishan e Haider)

"He might not be able to clear the Staff College Test, but to go Afghanistan; catch the President Najeeb will be a piece of cake for him". Stating the above, Time Magazine declared him as the number one free fall diver of the world. His journey of valor started when he was commissioned in PMA after his graduation from Gordon's College Rawalpindi. He was considered as the best cricketer of the college. Pakistani Star Cricketer Fazal Mehmood (also known as The Hero of the Oval) predicted him to be the best future cricketer of Pakistan. But fate decided something else for him. PMA was waiting for him. There he proved his mettle in every walk of soldiery.

It was 1965, he was preparing for a specialized course with Delta Force in USA. The Operation Gibraltar was announced. Refusing to join the course, he joined the operation. He was lost in Kashmir during the operation and was announced as "Missing believed Killed", but one day he approached a nearby post of Kashmir sector and soon identified by the authorities. He was soon recognized as the symbolic and mythical character of the SSG. In an early age, he was appointed as in-charge of Para Training School. Major Shabbir Shareef Nishan e Haider also got the PTW under his strict command. In the chaotic era of 1971, he was a potential threat to the Mukti Bahni and Indian Army. After the surrender, every Indian Army official was in search of this legend, but he was already in West Pakistan and no one was able to capture him.

When a plane of Air India was hijacked and brought to Pakistan, it was him and his two comrades who managed to arrest the hijackers and free the hostages without firing even a single bullet.

On an unfortunate morning of May 29, 1989, he jumped for a free fall. He opened his main parachute but the para chords were tangled. He opened his reserve parachute but it also failed to open. When a paratrooper lands, he adopts a certain posture i.e. bit leaned left, facing the ground. As his chutes failed to open, his martyrdom was certain, but that stone nerved person was still adopting the same posture. His velocity increased his weight up to tons, he fell and embraced martyrdom at the spot.

It was his performance which led him to the higher brass. He used to wear a black overall like all the paratroopers do, but he decorated his outfit by writing یااللہ (Oh Allah) on it.

The name of this legend is Brigadier Tariq Mehmood also known as TM Tiger. He was such a legendary and mythical character that still GOCs of SSG follow the example that he set. On the parade of March 23, 2015 Maj Gen Abid Rafique whereas on March 23,2016 Maj Gen Tahir Masood Bhutta dived in the outfit decorated with the words of Ya Allah.

 

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04 December 1971
Sulemanki Sector

The Brigade Commander of 105 Independent Brigade was standing in front of troops, standing upright in his uniform, he was addressing troops of Mujahid Battalion.

"My children! It’s about the integrity and honour of your country. I know you don't have proper training, you don't even have weapons. But I know what you have is the motivation and courage to defend your mother land. Remember! War is not won only by weapons, it is won by devotion and you are devoted to your country. Raise Nara e Takbeer with me to show that how motivated you are.

“Nara e Takbeer"

"Allah o Akbar", the mujahedeen who were only armed with outdated weapons and batons, replied on the top of their voice
Setting his gun to burst mode, he fired several rounds. "Did you get afraid?", he asked.

"No sir it was only a sound. Why should we be afraid of sound? Sounds never frighten us sir", several voices answered him.

"Bravo my children. Do you see the Village Muhammad Peera in front of you? Go and capture it and let the sounds never frighten you. May Allah be with you always.” he continued.

At the decided time, the assault on Village Muhammad Peera started. Indian Army had fortified its positions with every type of weapon, whereas soldiers of Mujahid Battalion were in the open. Only a few had proper weapons and rest were armed with batons or sharp tools. Indians laid intense fire on them with every kind of weapon. Instead of begin afraid of the fire, the soldiers continued; while shouting loudly, these are only sounds, these are only sounds.... Indians were frightened to see them advancing, fearing that they are under attack by a highly trained army, they left their position to make an escape. But this was also not easy for them. Mujahid Battalion chased them and captured 188 Indians soldiers. This was the biggest score of POWs ever caught in one sector. This was all done by the motivation of their leader, who always encouraged them in his typical way. This was the reason which made him the most famous commander of the sector.

Today, the world knows the brave commander as Major General Amir Hamza Khan.

After the start of war on September 06, 1965, air insurgencies from both sides became an important part of war strategy. Night used to bring bomber aircrafts from both sides. Indian pilots of Canberra bombers developed a technique to climb to middle altitude of 25-30000 feet and then descend to low level to approach the target. On the target the IAF Canberra would pull up to 8-10000 feet and aggress. Keeping the low level in all the process and later climbing to the middle height while entering the Indian Territory. To counter this strategy, main role was given to PAF Star fighter F-104 due to its radar based firing system and target accuracy. Moreover its supersonic speed was more than enough for IAF, as just a sight of F-104 was enough for them to make an escape. Because of this trait, it was known as بدمعاش Badmaash among PAF pilots. It was playing a vital role to counter the Indian Bombers strategy and had to do several CAP missions.

September 21, 1965 0400 HRS

A Squadron Leader of No. 9 Squadron was on a ADA mission. He was flying with an earnest desire to counter any intruder. Suddenly his radio came to life when Sakesar radar directed him to the Fazilka sector. The intruder IAF was escaping after bombing Sargodha air base. Taking the jet to the supersonic speed, the ambitious aviator reached the area pointed by the radar. Soon his eyes caught the sight of a Canberra bomber, heading towards Indian Territory, flying at 32000 feet. Resorting to his AIM-9B missile, pressing the button, air craft received a minor jerk with a flame. Indicating the launch of sidewinder missile. At the next moment, the Canberra was hit. Illuminating the pitch dark night, the Canberra exploded. Pilot ejected but was later captured. Later on, it was revealed that it was the only confirmed missile kill at night in actual combat by an F-104 Star Fighter anywhere in the world and the Squadron Leader became the first aviator to make this record. Government of Pakistan awarded him Sitara e Jurrat for this act of velour.

Today, world knows the brave aviator as Squadron Leader (Later Air Chief Marshal) Jamal Ahmed Khan Nishan e Imtiaz, Sitara e Jurrat, Sitara e Basalat.

December 04, 1971

A young flight lieutenant was flying over Chamb sector in search of a target. Just a couple of days ago, he was in PAF academy Risalpur as a flight instructor. As the war broke out, he and his fellow instructors volunteered for active role in the operational area. Enemy had more resources, so the Vintage Harvard TG-6 aircrafts were also brought in the war zone. Carrying only 400 rounds of machine gun and four 60 pounder bombs, it was a suicidal mission to fly just at the speed of 145 MPH. whereas enemy had superior aircrafts.

Flight Lieutenant was ordered to deliver his payload on the enemy column advancing in the area. Soon he noticed the movement of enemy convoy in the area.

"Contact I have visual on the target", Flight Lieutenant told the base.

"You are clear to engage", Base acknowledged.

Getting the approval, he dived on the target. Dropping the 60 pounder bomb and firing the machine guns, the Flight Lieutenant stunned the enemy. Enemy vehicles were destroyed but the location of the pilot was also exposed.

Enemy ack-ack started intense firing on the aircraft. Neglecting every fear, he again dived on the enemy; firing and dropping the bomb. A shell exploded near his aircraft which shattered the canopy and damaged the aircraft. Not only the aircraft was damaged but it also fractured his right arm which started bleeding profusely. With a broken arm and absence of canopy it was nearly impossible to control an out dated machine. Ground control advised him to eject. But the flight Lieutenant took the aircraft away from the battle field to Pakistani territory, flying the aircraft with just his left hand, landing safely on the Chaklala air field. He not only destroyed the enemy but also saved the aircraft.
Later, the flight Lieutenant was awarded with Sitara e Jurrat. The world knows the brave aviator as Group Captain Asrar Ahmed, Sitara e Jurrat, Sitara e Basalat.

06 September 1965
Barki Hudiara Sector
About 0100 Hours

Major along with his 90 men were moving towards their devised position. Keeping in mind the intelligence report of an expected Indian raid, the soldiers were moving cautiously. Suddenly the rattling sound of machine gun broke the silence in the dark night. Realizing that the fire came from the Pakistan Rangers post, Major ordered his men to move quickly. On his way he saw a man going towards Pakistani side. "Halt! Who comes there?” Major shouted at the man.

"Sir I am from the post of Rangers, Indians have launched a massive attack and our Major Sahab along with many other men has embraced martyrdom. I am going back to inform the authorities. Our field phone is also knocked out", the Havildar of rangers told the Major.

The Major ordered his men to disperse and take position along with the BRB Canal which was also known as Ichhogil Canal. Maintaining the silence, they spread. Voices of advancing Indian soldiers and the heavy sound of engines were evident of massive movement of Indian Infantry and a tank regiment. Indians had no idea that Pakistan army is in the area. Though 90 men had no comparison to fight with one brigade and a tank regiment, but the major was still in an aggressive mood.

"جوانو گھبرانا بالکل نئیں۔اساں ایہناں نوں بہت کٹنا اے'' (Don't be afraid jawans, we will give them a tough time). In his typical cheerful mood, he encouraged his men

Major climbed to a higher position and started observing the area with binoculars, waiting for the Indians to come in their small arms range. When the Indians came in range, one of Indian snipers spotted the Major. He fired a bullet at him, without damaging the bone; the bullet pierced through his left arm.

Major came to his men, showing his wounded arm, he said ''ویکھو منڈیو ایہہ لالے دی گولی اے ساڈا کج نئیں وگاڑ سکدی۔کسے نوں بچ کے نہ جان دیو'' (Look boys, its Hindus bullet can't to any damage to us. Never let anyone go alive).

Major contacted the battalion headquarters for artillery support. This area was not registered then in the Pakistani artillery map. So, the artillery was hesitant to send fire as it can hit Pakistani troops as well.

"Dont worry about us. Note our location and send SOS fire. We will provide directions regarding the enemy position", Neglecting the fear of loss, major said to his CO Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim.

Till then enemy had no idea of Pakistani strength in this area. They were advancing fearlessly. As the first round of Pakistani artillery hit them, they were frozen at the spot because of terror and surprise. Major directed the artillery right at the enemy. They started to get shot like sitting ducks. Moreover Major also ordered his antitank crew to fire. Turning two Indian tanks into rubble, Pakistani recoilless rifles started operations. Moreover, 90 men also opened the doors of hell for the Indians. Instead of advancing, Indians had to run for their lives now. Repeated waves of artillery fire, sharp whistling of antitank rounds and the rattles of automatic weapons turned the fertile belt of wheat crops into ditch of hell. Enemy advance was nipped in the bud.

All night long and the whole next day, Indians tried to advance, but Pakistani troops stopped them by giving lethal blows. These moments were precious for Pakistani troops to establish the defense line. As the day of 07 September started, Major and his comrades were ordered to come back as Barki was established as the choke point and Major Aziz Bhatti was the man holding the position. Major and his men came back.

As Major reached his battalion headquarters, his CO hugged him.

"Good work son. I don't have enough words to commemorate you", his CO Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim said.

Major was taken to the GOC Major General Sarfraz Khan. "Good work Major, you saved the day. Tell me how many men you lost?" General asked.

Major said,"Only two martyred and a few injured".

General was extremely surprised as he expected massive casualties. Thinking that Major might be in shock and that's why he is not in full senses, General said,"Look Major I know you are tired. Take some rest."

"Sir you can count my men", Major replied politely.

Pakistan army kept Indians pinned down for 17 days. When the ceasefire was announced. Major was assigned the task to negotiate with the Indians to settle the border territory. In spite of the ceasefire, situation was still tense from both sides and the firing incidents were common. On such a day, Indian company commander Major Puri and Indian Armor officer Major Hira Singh were sitting on the border, facing Pakistan. They saw a smart and well built Pakistani officer in Major's uniform, crossing the border and coming all alone towards them. In a surprised manner, they saw him approaching. The Major shook hand with Major Puri and Major Hira Singh, introducing him to them. It was a moment of shock for both Indian officers as the name of that Pakistani officer was a sign of terror for the Indians in this area. The meeting started and Indians accepted his all recommendations without any argument. Later Indians confirmed that the day Major stopped Indian raid, it was strength of a full infantry brigade and a tank regiment. About a hundred enemy soldiers were killed and seven tanks were destroyed and the dream of General Chauhdary to have the breakfast at Lahore was shattered. It was all done under the valiant leader ship of the Major. For his act of valor, he was awarded Sitara e Jurrat.

Today the world knows him as Colonel Shafqat Hussain Baloch (Sitara e Jurrat).

First week of September 1965.

Flt. Lt. Syed Shamsuddin Ahmed was sick and deeply worried about his deteriorating health condition. He was afraid of being grounded at a time when clouds of war were thickening on the Indo-Pak horizon. He was a B-57 bomber pilot; and he wanted to honour the pledge he gave to his country and nation in the hour of trial.

The real time of trial came for which the Air Force trained him. In the early hours of 6th September, the Indian Army launched its multiple ground attacks on Lahore and The Indo-Pak war was declared. With lines of pain written on his face, Shams walked into the operations room of the air base. He was taking a great risk which might cost him his life, his navigator s’ and a valuable bomber B-57.

In a jet bomber aircraft during night bombing mission a late split second decision or weakness can hurl it into the oblivion of No Return. “What if I crash! Would Almighty God forgive me for taking the life of an innocent young man , my navigator, “ he thought. With faith in Divine help and in his own destiny he curbed his fears. However, he could not afford to inform his commanding officer about his ailing condition; he would straight away been ordered to report to the hospital and ultimately grounded from flying duties. He looked round and in a corner of the room he saw Sqn. Ldr. Shoaib A. Khan, a navigator. Who escaped from the boredom of staff duty at Air Headquarters in search of combat thrill at an operational air base.

With much reluctance Shams approached him. After salutation he quietly whispered about his ailing condition to Shoaib and with a grin asked him if he would like to accompany him as his navigator. “It s’ O.K. I will fly with you,” firmly replied Shoaib. His sincerity inspired him.“ Where would I get a pilot of such guts to fly with,” he thought. The reply had taken Shams by surprise who feared that nobody would like to accompany an ailing pilot with whom it could be a suicidal bombing mission.

It was different Shams now. His whole countenance changed. Jubilant with joy and eagerness the Eagle seemed to have forgotten his ailing conditions. Outside the operation room it was complete black out and not a single light could be seen. The soft cool radiance of the moon had brought in a seemingly peaceful atmosphere belying the inner cauldron of war.

From then on till the end of the war the two valiant flyers flew night after night bombing missions against enemy air bases, braving intense enemy ack ack fire and destroying a number of targets. Never afterwards did Shams, complained of the grueling kidney pain which he suffered during the hours he had to wait for his next night bombing mission.

During one of his attacks on Halwara air base located near Indian city Ludhiana, Flt. Lt. Shams was going to start on his bombing run when he felt a killing pain in his kidney. It was a critical moment. Enemy ack ack batteries had opened up and the sky was lit with tracers and shell bursts. Shams hesitated and groaned for a brief moment. He prayed and then intoning (Allah ho Noor us sama waat) A Quranic Verse he had been told by his comrades, he yanked the controls and dived steeply in for the bombing run. Shells burst all around and streams of bullets whizzed past but the bomber flew on nose down, into the devastating deadly focus of fire. The whole aircraft rocked to the blast of too near miss from enemy ack ack firing. His kidney pain vanished. The silhouettes of ground installations at enemy air base, one of the biggest in northern India, were getting nearer as the B-57 bomber roared on through the pulverizing deadly fire. Suddenly Shams pressed the button and eight 1000 lbs bombs went down hurling towards the dark structure below. One of the bombs scored a wonderful, blinding, bursting hit, bang on a fuel dump sending a huge plume of fire which could in a short while be seen from 60 miles away. The mission accomplished, the aircraft pulled up and Sqn Ldr. Shoaib , the navigator ,set course for their own air base.

The tension and heat of the attack was gone and Flt. Lt. Shams again started feeling relaxed. However, the gallant eagle landed back safely. In the words of his navigator, Sqn. Ldr. Shoaib A. Khan; ”Flt. Lt. Shams used to come to the aircraft groaning with kidney pain; but once in the cockpit he was relaxed man. He flew like a cool headed seasoned bomber pilot making low-level precision attack after attack on enemy air bases. Never once did he falter in his judgment.

Soon after the cease fire, Flt Lt. Shams was admitted in a hospital where as many as 28 stones were found in his lacerated kidney which had to be removed. He would not be able to fly his faithful B-57 bomber again but now he was happy, because a pledge was honoured !

India waged a full scale war on Pakistan by attacking on 06 September 1965 at Lahore front. When Pakistan repulsed the attack valiantly, India ran towards UNO for ceasefire. On 22 September, at 10:30 AM, it was conveyed to all the Pakistani troops that ceasefire will commence from 12:00 PM; so every kind of fire should be stopped. Pakistan army stopped fire at 12 but Indians kept firing. At 03:00 PM, Pakistani troops were conveyed that the ceasefire will commence from 23 September at 03:00 AM. Indian Artillery started intense fire all of a sudden.

At Sialkot sector, situation was very tense, as India had support of 1 full Corp and 2 Divisions of Artillery. As the night of 23 September prevailed, Pakistani saw Indians moving towards their position. They laid every kind of fire on Indians; leaving their several persons dead, Indians ran away. On 23 September at 03:00 PM, it was total silence.

Lieutenant Colonel (R) Muhammad Asif 6FF Regiment recalls,

"After ceasefire, it was our foremost job to gather our Martyrs, being heavily bombarded by Indian Air force and artillery, 6 FF had no casualties but before leaving from the sector, 3 FF requested to find their 4 martyrs in that area. Me and Shabbir Shareef (we both were lieutenants at that time) reached the area. Covering our nose with mask with two stretcher bearers with us, we started the search. Indians also faced heavy casualties in the sector. Because of rotten decomposing bodies, there was a very strong stench in the area, it was impossible to stand there even for a minute.

Here we saw such a sight that we would have never believed if someone else told us. We only believed it as we saw it ourselves. Among the dead bodies of Indians, we found our martyrs. The dead bodies of enemy were a few days old but they were swollen rotten and having maggots and were stinking badly. Whereas the bodies of our martyrs were lying there from 14 September, still fresh as if they were martyred few hours ago. When we picked them they started fresh bleeding. Neither they were rotten, nor were they stinking.
I am not a religious person at all not even regular in my prayers, but what I saw that day, made my faith Stronger."

Colonel (R) Muhammad Ishfaq, the famous writer of various books narrates:
"I was sent to Rattu (an area in the outskirts of Gilgit) for some educational purpose. One night I was in the mess and reading the Hunters' log book. I read a narration penned down by someone as following
"June 1955 Local people complained that a bunch of wild bears is terrorizing Faqeer Kot. They have not only killed many sheep but also assaulted a Shepherd, injuring him brutally. We arranged a party who found this pack of bears. One bear was killed while rest ran away."
When I was reading these lines, I suddenly heard a sound as if someone is walking with heavy feet, outside the mess on the wooden floor. This sound was totally different from the sound of military shoes and was similar to the thumps of a large animal. I got up and came out side. It was full moon's night and everything was clear in the moonlight. Shining moon, rustling leaves, and silent mountains and all of a sudden I entered the room and bolted the door, as I saw a brown bear standing in front of the door with his back towards me. I realized that bear has not seen me. My heart beat got fast as if it is going come out of my chest. Suddenly I heard the sound of walking feet going away. Opening the door slightly, I peeped outside; the bear was still standing there. I bolted the door quickly and started considering the options.
First I looked for any available weapon in the room. But not even a paper cutter was available there. Then I looked at the pen on the nearby table. I realized that I could do nothing to the bear with this pen; I can’t even stab its eyes. I thought that its one of those bears which ran away. Now it is here to take the revenge. What should I do now? Should I write him a letter to explain the situation that I didn't kill your family as I am just an educator? This idea was such a childish thought that I laughed myself. Again I looked out but the bear was still standing there quietly. I sat down on the couch and started thinking. Silence, fatigue and cold, all prevailed and I slept thinking. When I woke up, it was broad daylight and I could hear the mess staff talking in the kitchen. Everything I faced last night was just feeling like a dream. I came outside and to my wonder; the tall brown bear was still in the same posture. Now I came closer to it and what I saw was enough to make me laugh. It was just a bear skin which was adjusted on a wooden stand to dry in such a manner as if a live bear is standing on its feet. This bear was hunted by a Subedar and the CO ordered to preserve the skin. But what was walking outside the mess last night with thumping sounds? The answer was that it was the guard who wore PT shoes as doctor advised him not to wear military shoes to avoid the pain.
All I faced last night, I kept it to myself. I laughed at my situation last night and got busy in my morning routine."

September 1965

Indian Army faced defeat in Rann of Kutch. Chambb and Jaurian were also captured by Pakistan Army. It was obvious by the speed of Pakistani troops that they will capture the remaining area of Kashmir as well. It was the time of hostilities, insurgencies and battle from both sides.
PAF was playing a vital role at that time. Indian Army and air force faced lethal blows by PAF from day one. Under the visionary leader ship of Commander In Chief Air Marshall Nur Khan, PAF became a nightmare for Indians. Air Marshall Nur Khan decided to take aggressive stance against the enemy.
September 04, 1965
A Flight Lieutenant of No.9 Squadron was on air patrol in his Star Fighter (F-104), over Kashmir Area. Suddenly his radio woke up. The C-in-C Nur Khan was on the line. Directing him to head toward the most important and the most protected Amritsar Air Field and perform a Super Sonic Boom over the Indian Air Field. Though his intention was not to fire on the air field, but his aim was to deliver a warning to Indians. In the dark of night, the young aviator took the direction of Amritsar and reached the air field. Instead of performing his dare devil trick on high altitude; he lowered his height. He started pressing the throttle to gain enough speed to break the sound barrier. As the jet crossed the required speed, the sonic boom generated by the mighty F-104 shook the atmosphere. Indian air defense was alerted, making the sky red with exploding ack ack shells; they made a net of fire in the sky. But it was futile as they had no match with the skills of the pilot.
As he crossed Amritsar, Nur Khan was again on the radio, asking, "Boy have you done it?"
"Yes Sir", the young aviator replied.
"Make another Pass", Nur Khan commanded.
"Right Sir", saying it, he again turned towards Amritsar.
This time the Indian Air Defence was alert. They started immense firing but it again proved to be useless, as the F-104 again passed through the Indian sky. Making a fearsome boom, giving a clear reply to the Indians that we can hit you whenever, wherever we want.
After a short while, in a nervous and afraid manner, Indian Radio broadcasted the news that 8 Pakistani planes rocketed Amritsar Air Field. Whereas it was only one F-104 which gave a loud and clear message to the Indian Command.
The pilot landed safely on Pakistani air field and later provided air support in numerous missions to Pakistani forces.
Today the world knows the Brave Aviator as Air Vice Marshall Farooq Umar Hilal e Imtiaz Military, Sitara e Jurrat, Sitara e Basalat, Tamgha e Basalat.

 

[CHD]

Captain Akhtar recalls those days:

One day, I received three eid greeting cards, addressing me as "پیارے چچا جان". I thought for a moment that I don't have any nephew or niece, who sent me these cards? Suddenly it reminded me of an old incident.
It was November and a cold and brutal night of Siachen. At about 10:00 PM, I received a message from the Headquarters that five men were sent to my post fifteen hours ago, confirm that they have reached your post. The distance between my post and the HQ was only of five hours. Still after fifteen hours, their absence was evident that they have lost their way. We were three officers on the post. I thought for a moment that the rest of two are married and have families, I am single so I should go and look for the missing men myself. It was heavy snow fall outside. I asked my HQ for permission to go for search. Request was denied, but when I insisted, I was allowed to go and look for them at 05:00 AM in the morning if the storm stops. On the devised time, me with twenty five other men went for the search. After a full day search, we reached a point at about 04:00 PM. Suddenly I spotted three men. Holding each other’s hands tightly, they were walking. We rushed towards them. Their uniforms and gloves were torn and the snow burnt their faces.
It was clear that they were not in their senses. I reached near them, to raise their morale, I asked, "Jawans what's going on?" Their leader replied, “Sir today at 05:00 AM, we set out from headquarters to reach your post. But I am unable to understand that what is going on, we were unable to find it."
In Siachen, deficiency of oxygen causes hallucination and high altitude sickness, which often causes a person to misjudge direction, time, vision and even audible sounds. These jawans were also a victim of the same as they didn’t remembered that they set out yesterday not today. "Don't worry jawan, we'll take you there", I said. Hearing this, they all fell down and fainted. We took them to the post and gave them treatment. When they came to their senses, I asked their leader that what happened.
He told me that they set out for the post, On their way, the snow storm got worse. The two persons walking ahead disappeared in the snow, but the remaining three kept on walking. They lost their way to the post, in the darkness of night and intensity of storm. They had nothing but a cotton bed sheet. They made a tent with I and sat close to each other in that tent. One of them was "Hafiz e Quran". He started reciting Kalam e Pak. For the whole night, neither the storm nor the recitation stopped. When the sun came out in the morning, it was welcomed by the recitation of Surah e Falak.
They started their journey again which was supposed to be of five hours, but it prolonged to 27 hours. They lost their senses and kept on moving on circular paths, which led them to nowhere, until we found them. The dead bodies other two missing persons were found buried under fifteen feet thick layer of snow. The only reason for the survival of my three jawans I consider is the recitation of Holy Quran by one of them, which kept them alive in a snow storm even after 27 hours.
The eid greeting cards I received were sent to me by their children. I still receive them as most anticipated eid gift.

P.S : The men in the photograph are not the ones mentioned in the story. It is just used to Aid the article.

September 1987
Bilafond Sector, Siachen

Quaid OP was an important post of the sector. It was located about 22000 feet high and had a great strategic importance. It literally pinned down Indian army in this sector as it covered almost every supply path and the drop zone, which made it impossible for the Indians to survive. Seeing this, Indians launched a massive attack on the post, and after getting its 200 soldiers killed by Subedar Atta Muhammad and his 7 companions, they finally captured the post. To counter the Indian advantage and give them a surprise, Pakistan decided to give Indians a throat punch by capturing the largest Indian post of the sector, which were functional as the area head quarters as well. This operation was named as Operation Qayadat. 4 Groups of SSG were designated to launch the attack; NLI and Sindh Regiment were assigned for supply and medical aid whereas a company of SSG was kept in reserve.

24 September 1987

(Enemy noticed the movement of Pakistani troops, who penetrated deep inside the enemy territory and were about to launch the attack. Surprised enemy started howitzer's air burst. The attack was launched with full force on the Indians. Neglecting every fear, Pakistani troops were advancing. Captain Salak Cheema got Martyred and the Pakistani troops started to face difficulty in advancing. This reserve group of SSG to was mobilized.

The Captain who was the company commander of the reserve troops called his med for a briefing. After the briefing them, he called his Havildar Noor Muhammad.

"Noor Muhammad, this is my will. I gave it to the CO. You also have a copy of it.", handing over a paper to Noor Muhammad, he said.

"Sir what are you saying?” shocked Noor Muhammad said.

"As a Muslim we must be prepared to die. I also have some amount payable to the mess. Tell me how much it is. I want to pay it as soon as possible", Captain further said.

Now he went to his every Jawan and checked the weapons and luggage himself. "Gather as much ammunition as you can", he advised.

2100 HRS

Captain along with his team reached the area. Though it was a dark night but the black spots of exploded shells could be seen on the snow. Explosions were shaking the ground, but the slogans of Allah O Akbar being raised by the attacking Pakistani Troops were still audible to the captain and his men. Enemy had shifted the fire of all his artillery to the area but Pakistani Tigers were still advancing. Captain saw that the right flank of attack platoon is under machine gun fire and three commandoes embraced martyrdom. He advanced rapidly towards the machine gun bunkers. Throwing a grenade inside, he numbed the enemy machine guns, but a bullet also pierced his leg. Meanwhile the Commanding Officer Colonel Atique Awan called on the wireless. Captain reported him the situation. As he was bleeding heavily, the weakness in his voice was prominent.

"What is it Captain? Why do you sound so weak?, Colonel asked

"No sir its not weakness, I think it’s the rough weather ", Captain didn't tell him about his injury.

Now Pakistani troops were getting closer to the Indian Position, as the reinforcement by the Captain, revived the attack. Now there was high wall of snow in front of them which was to be crossed to continue the attack. But it was covered by heavy machine gun fire. It was about 5:30 AM now and the sun was about to rise. The visibility was a bit clear and the enemy could spot Pakistanis now. Neglecting every fear, Captain started climbing the wall. Still the enemy machine gun fire was on. Captain and his two companions were successful to cross the wall. Now the machine gun bunkers were right in front of them. Loading a round in the RPG, captain held the launcher and fired. The explosion shattered the bunker in to pieces of flesh, concrete and metal. Now it was the second bunker. Again the rocket was fired and the smell of burnt flesh surrounded the atmosphere. Now it was an easy task for Pakistani troops to capture the post. The captain and his two comrades advanced. Enemy was afraid to see the tigers advancing.

Meanwhile at the Pakistani Brigade Headquarters, enemy transmission was intercepted

"Sir its Pakistanis everywhere. We can't hold them. A large number of casualties all over the place. a frightened voice said.

Forgetting every fear, the charge continued. When the enemy position was only meters away, a shell exploded near the Captain, tossing him many feet above the ground. When he fell, he was already a Martyr. But his story didn't finish here. Right after the capture of the post, a heavy snow storm hit the area. Covering every inch of the ground and making everything invisible. When the storm was over, everything vanished under the thick layer of snow, including the bodies of martyrs as well.

July 1988

It was summer season in the area. The snow started to melt in Bilafond Sector, a strange sight was seen. 14 bodies, encased in crystal clear snow were visible deep inside the Indian Territory. It was perceived that these might be the bodies of Captain and his comrades as their bodies were not recovered. A flag staff meeting was held. It was decided that Pakistanis will dig it out. The digging started and the bodies were recovered. Normally a body buried in snow turns brown or greenish after such a long period, but these bodies were fresh as if these young men are asleep with cluster of red color on their White jackets. Their identification was confirmed as Captain and his companions. This sight amazed the Indians and the Indian Company commander expressed his wonder as well.

August 06, 1988

The dead body of captain was brought to his village Pashoonghari, where thousands of people offered his Namaz e Janaza. At that day, all the soldiers of Siachen Sector observed fast for their hero.

Today the world knows the brave Captain as Captain Muhammad Iqbal Shaheed Hilal e Jurrat.

July 1999 Tiger Hills Complex
Fearlessly, he was standing upright on a rock, observing the area with binoculars. "Ustad Ji! Subedar says come in and take rest. You are up for a long time", a soldier said to him. "Tell him that I am not going to rest until I drive every Indian out of my area", with binoculars still on, he replied. "As you wish Ustad Ji", the soldier returned. Along with 10 other soldiers, Havaldar was under the command of Subedar Sikandar.
After few hours, under the cover of intense artillery shelling, enemy launched a full scale attack on the complex. Due to the clever deployment of soldiers by Subedar Sikandar, the attack of a full enemy battalion was repulsed by “ only eleven soldiers ” . Enemy retreated and started shelling on the Pakistani posts. It was clear that enemy will order its troops to march forward and take the position in Pakistani controlled area. While all this was happening, an enemy transmission was intercepted by Pakistani wireless control room. The Indian infantry commander was abusing his intelligence section, who told that there is only a small group of Pakistani soldiers in this area, whereas the return fire from Pakistan's side showed that as if two battalions of Pak Army were in this area. So, Indian Artillery should increase fire on Pakistani posts. While in reply, the Indian Artillery commander was also abusing the infantry commander and telling him that he is already laying enough fire which can even kill a brigade within minutes.
When all this was going on, Ustad came up with an idea. "I have recorded every inch of this area. I know from where the enemy will advance in cover of artillery. I'll go there and fix explosives. When the enemy will advance, he will be thrown back to hell", he said to Subedar Sikandar.
"My friend we are already short of men here and we can't afford even one person to be scratched, you have seen yourself how intense the shelling is", Sikander replied.
"Don't you worry sir, I know how to make my way …", Havaldar answered.
In the rain of exploding airburst shells, Havaldar jumped out with bag of explosives. Within an hour, he set up the explosives and returned. The shelling didn’t stop even for a minute. After continuous shelling of six hours, enemy started to advance. Considering that there will be no survivor after such shelling
As they reached near the Pakistani area, the mines started to explode and the Indians soldiers were killed like pigeons. The 11 Soldiers now opened fire on the advancing Indians. Leaving about 50 dead personnel behind, the enemy escaped. Havaldar went to the dead Indians and collected all the weapons with the dead as the Pakistani were running out of supplies.
July 06,1999
To finish the embarrassment, enemy started shelling again; now aerial support was also being used. After a bombardment of 7 hours, Sikandar and 6 of his comrades were martyred. Havaldar along with his 3 men was facing the enemy.
July 07,1999
Lieutenant Yasir joined him with 10 soldiers. Havaldar was also injured as his left arm was disabled because of a splinter and he was firing with only one hand. Yasir went to him and said,"Ustad Ji you have done a lot you are injured now, I think you should go back now and get some medication".
"I think my arm will be amputated if take medical treatment now. Instead of resting in a hospital with my one arm, I'll prefer to sacrifice the other arm as well in the battle field.", Havaldar answered in a stubborn manner. Impressed with the courage of Havaldar, Yasir went back.
Pakistani intelligence section dug out the enemy gun position which was bombarding Pakistani posts. To retain the attack, it was important to destroy it. It was again the Havaldar who volunteered for the mission. In spite of taking any help, he decided to perform the task alone. With a bag full of explosives, he went to the enemy gun position. After locating the ammunition dump and guns, he placed the charges and blew it up. The gigantic explosion shook the area and destroyed enemy fire power. The Havaldar was also affected by monstrous shock waves and embraced Shahadat.
In the Pakistani area, the absence of enemy artillery fire was enough to tell that the Havaldar has succeeded in his task, but his absence also proved that he has embraced martyrdom.
September 15, 1999
Major Khalid Nazir, deployed two locating groups named عقاب Uqaab and ابابیلAbabeel to search for the Havaldar. They found his body lying beside the destroyed enemy guns, in a bunker. While the twenty dead bodies of enemy and a cache of destroyed arms was also present at the sight. His body was taken to his village Morang مورنگ, where his funeral prayer was offered and later Government of Pakistan awarded him Nishan e Haider.
Today the world knows the brave hero as Havaldar Lalak Jan Shaheed of Northern Light Infantry.

December 17, 1971
Sargodha Air Base,
West Pakistan.

Formation leader from elite No. 18 squadron with his wingman Flt. Lt Taloot Mirza, was on a routine patrol over the battle area, in their Sabre F-86s. They were flying over Pasrur area, where two armies were engaged in a fierce fight, they were cautioned by control. "Two rats approaching from east. Locate and terminate.", (Rat was the code for Indian MiG-21). The intruding pair scrambled from Amritsar. They were still out of PAF's radar cover but their presence was detected by their VHF frequency. Formation Leader soon detected the pair of MiGs. With a high speed, a MiG from the formation dived at the Sabers and fired a burst. Formation leader immediately broke into MiG with maximum speed and avoided the volley of fire.
The desperate MiG tried to get behind the Sabre but failed. In pure frustration, he fired his K-13 sidewinder missile at the Sabre. Making a steep turn again, formation Leader avoided the launch and the missile missed him. The Leader now made a barrel role maneuver, which cramped the MiG for space. As the Leader expected, the two MiGs zipped past him, offering him a space to hit. The table was turned on the attackers now. Placing his gun on the target, he started firing with his six 0.5 inches BMGs, on the MiG which attacked him. The volley landed right behind the canopy of MiG which started oozing black smoke. In a panic the pilot of MiG ejected and his air craft dived into the ground in a big ball of flames. The Indian Pilot was arrested by Pakistan Army immediately and later was identified as Flt Lt Tejwant Singh. Whereas the other MiG chased by Taloot Mirza ran away. The aerial combat between supersonic MiG and the old Sabre was the last conflict of the war
The formation leader was awarded Tamgha e Jurrat for his act of valor. Today the world knows this brave aviator as Flight Lieutenant Maqsood Amir (Later Group Captain).

He was only a teenager from Kahuta, when his father Malik Kala Khan passed away. Facing the adverse circumstances manly, he worked in an early age to support his family, cleared secondary school and later joined PAF as an aircraft technician on 19 June 1958. Seeing his passion, skill and intellect, he was allowed to undergo officer's training course in 1963. On January 30, 1966, he passed out as an officer and posted at No.9 squadron chaklala. As a navigator, he initially operated on C-130, later in 1970 he was transferred to No.7 Squadron of B-57 at Masroor air base. During Pakistan India war in 1971, he was detached to Mianwali along with his zealous crew.
Amritsar was a major air base of Indian Air force. Besides its strategic importance the installation of the radar made it even more important for PAF to destroy it. On dusk of December 05, 1971, Flight Lieutenant Javed Iqbal and the brave navigator took off from Mianwali airbase to Amritsar airbase for bombardment. In the outskirts of Amritsar after checking their payload, they dived towards the airbase delivering the destructive luggage on the runway, the B-57 rose up for the second blow. When the bombs hit the ground, heavy ack-ack fire by the enemy covered the sky. As the resilient aviators dropped the second installment of destruction on the planes standing on the tarmac, a barrage of ack-ack fire hit the B-57. Javed tried to control the air craft but failed. Consequently, both aviators ejected from the burning aircraft.
Javed's ejection was unsuccessful and he landed on the ground as a martyr, though navigator ejected safely, but before landing on the ground, he was unconscious because of a head injury . He was urgently transferred to a hospital in Delhi. Where after struggling with death for twelve days, he embraced martyrdom on December 17, 1971. His funeral was offered in Islamic Way, so a Pakistani PAF Officer Flight Lieutenant Amjad was called to participate, as he was a POW those days in India.
To wrap the coffin in Pakistani flag, Indians brought the flag from Saudi Embassy in Delhi. After performing of rituals, he was buried in the Nizam ud Din Auliya Graveyard, Delhi. Meanwhile in Pakistan, the navigator was reported as "Missing in Action". His wife Bashiran Bibi kept waiting for months, until she received a letter from the Red Cross along with the pictures of Navigator's funeral, mentioning that her husband has embraced shahadat on December 17, 1971.
Years after years, the contingents visit the 'Urs' of Hazrat Nizam Us Din Auliya and visit the grave of Navigator and pay homage to the great son of Pakistan. Today, the history knows the brave son of soil as Flight Lieutenant Ghulam Murtaza Malik Tamgha e Jurrat.

A Pakistani Captain consoling a Bengali child.

Mughal Gate East Pakistan. General Tikka Khan in a Captured Mukti Bahini hideout

December 1971 6-FF in Defenceafter taking Saboona Ridger from Indian forces

 

[CHD]

December 1971 Pakistani Soldiers Positioned on Saboona Ridge after taking it from Indian Forces

10 April 1959 was a red letter day in the history of the Pakistan Air Force. It was the day that the PAF achieved its first ever ‘kill’ in an air engagement. Strangely enough, this happened not in the middle of a war, or even a limited confrontation with an enemy. It happened as a finale to a stealthy incursion into Pakistani airspace by an Indian photo reconnaissance Canberra. Such violations hadoccurred earlier also but the PAF’s air defence system was still in a state of flux, dependent as it was on WW II vintage radar cover. Besides, the earlier incursions had been only a little way into Pakistan and the intruders invariably managed to slip quickly back into their own airspace before PAF interceptors could close in for an engagement.

But today there was a difference. It was Eid-ul-Fitr a religious holiday to mark the end of Ramadhan month long fasting in Pakistan and the whole nation would be in a mood of festive relaxation. It would be reasonable to assume that even the PAF would have lowered its guard somewhat to accommodate Eid celebration programmes of its personnel. Today the Indian snooper should be able to fly pretty deep into Pakistan and get away with it. Such thoughts must have been the prelude to that day’s IAF photo recce mission. The rest of the story at first hand comes from Flight Lieutenant Yunis of 15 Squadron at Peshawar:

“The air defence alert (ADA) arrangements at Peshawar were spartan - a couple of chairs in the balmy April sunshine in one corner of the alert platform where we sat and chatted and drank tea - it was still too early in the morning to expect our breakfast from the mess. I had been detailed for ADA that Eid day along with two other bachelor pilots - the married officers were ‘spared’ so that they could join the festivities with their families. They would be green with envy at the bachelors before that day was over! I myself nearly missed the excitement to come, when Naseer Butt, who was to be my formation leader, threatened to put me on mobile duty as punishment for being late. But perhaps our common Cranwellian connection persuaded him to relent! I had a total of 450 hours at that time, with about 100 on the Sabre. Boredom had not quite begun to set in when the alarm sounded for a scramble of two Sabres. In no time at all, Naseer and I were off the ground in a maximum rate climb, on a vector of 150 degrees.”

The vector had been given by Pilot Officer Rab Nawaz, the duty air defence controller crouched tensely in front of his radar screen in the operations cabin of 223 Squadron, commanded by Flight Lieutenant S A Rahman. The WW II Type 15 mobile radar unit was deployed at Wegowal, an abandoned airstrip near Sargodha, and was hooked up to a makeshift Sector Operations Centre located at the Tiwana House in Sargodha cantonment. It was from this SOC that the duty operations officers, Flight Lieutenant A M Shahzada, had given Peshawar the order to scramble.

Rab Nawaz was a very junior officer and his job was not made any easier by the absence of a height finding facility. Moreover, the aircraft blips spread across nearly 10 to 15 miles of the range scale on his vintage radar screen. Nevertheless Rab Nawaz persevered and, with intense concentration, eventually succeeded in manoeuvring the Sabres into visual contact with the target, whose contrails no doubt played an important part in this interception. Yunis continues:

“At about 20,000 ft, we spotted a double trail way above and far ahead. Assuming two Hunters, I selected their wingspan on my gunsight. No target was available to our controlling radar but we were vectored on a curve of pursuit. When we were at 41,000 ft, the trails could be identified as a single Canberra flying on a steady northerly heading, clearly oblivious of any threat to it. Overhead Gujrat now, it appeared to be at about 50,000 ft. We punched our tanks and, although we were still out of range, the mounting excitement threatened to get the better of sound judgement.”

The Sabre leader now called for clearance to shoot and, for a moment, Rab Nawaz debated whether to go through the full standard procedure for obtaining permission. But that would very likely cause enough delay to allow the positively identified Canberra to slip away - such a close encounter may not occur again in a long time. He quickly told Shahzada at SOC that he was about to clear the Sabres to shoot - and proceeded to do just that. Yunus goes on:

“We were still not within optimum range but Naseer impatiently launched into a series of energy-climb/burst-of-gunfire/stall out sequence which became more desperate with each repetition. In the meantime, I kept a steady height and heading in order to give rear cover to my leader. It suddenly occurred to me that, if the Canberra spotted us, he would in all probability turn right i.e., towards the border, so I eased over in that direction. The leader had given me the okay to have a go if I could, but I could see I was still too far below the target. Presently, the Canberra did turn right and then, as if he had spotted me, quickly reversed. On that side he must have spotted Butt, for he seemed to panic and tightened his turn, which of course caused him to lose height rapidly. I saw my chance and put a bead on his right engine - just in time I remembered my Hunter wingspan setting and quickly ranged on half the Canberra’s span - immediately I could see my bullets impacting on his right engine. I traversed the bead to the centre, not letting go of the trigger till the guns stopped - due to over-heating, as it turned out. But I had fired 1,200 rounds by then and the doomed Canberra whipped into a spiral.

“I had not seen any ejection but, in fact, both crew were found, relatively unharmed, by a ground party and after the usual interrogation, returned to India. While I headed for base, stunned by the excitement of my experience, Butt watched the Canberra spiral down to its impact point. As I approached Peshawar I was sorely tempted to do a victory roll over the base, and barely resisted the temptation - this may have been providential because two sorties later this aircraft had an aileron-jam malfunction which the pilot overcame only in the nick of time to avoid a crash. Had this jam occurred during my contemplated victory roll, I could have easily wound up being an ‘over confidence’ statistic in a fatal accident inquiry. Eid Mubarak to me, indeed!”

A befitting Eid gift to the Pakistan Air Force, which had drawn first blood!

Flight Lieutenant Yunis was awarded the ‘Sitara-e-Jurat’ . He rose to the rank of Air Vice Marshal and retired in June, 1990.

Courtesy : PAF Falcons

December 3, 1971
Taitwal Sector, Kashmir
Enemy attacked on the sector with its full battalion on the Pakistani posts situated at the height of 7000 feet. A company of 20 Pakistani soldiers repulsed the attack. The second attack by enemy was laid on "Toot Margali", which they captured. On December 07, 1971, the ceasefire was implemented and it resulted in the surrounding of a Pakistani post "Berru wali Naar". In reply Pakistan Army captured two peaks named "Gursi Danna" and "Gatti Pathra" which resulted the surrounding of an enemy brigade in "Lepa". The Pakistani post "Beeru wali Naar" was supplied through a lake which was under observation of Indians whereas the Indian Brigade was to be supplied after covering a distance which took supplies about 4 to 5 days to reach. This issue became a burning question for Indian command.
April 20, 1972
The harsh argument between Pakistani Lieutenant Colonel of Azad Kashmir regiment and the Indian Commander Colonel Changyapa was taking place.
"Colonel I demand you to give us a way towards Lepa for our telephone lines and supplies as soon as possible, otherwise I know that how to do it." Changyapa said.
"If it is so, go and do it yourself. Let me see how are you going to do it", Pakistani Colonel replied.
April 27, 1972
Enemy attacked on "Gatti Pathra" and "Gursi Danna" to capture and make way into Lepa. But in spite of intense artillery firing and man power, wasn't able to take even an inch of Pakistani area, leaving 150 dead men behind. Resultantly, he blocked the way towards "Beeru wali Naar" and Pakistani company was running out of supplies.
May 01, 1972
Chakothi Lepa Sector, Kashmir
A tall and handsome man came out of the mosque in Lepa, after offering Zuhar prayer. Going to a nearby cloth merchant Haji Sher Zaman and bought a piece of plane white cloth and wrapped it on his head. The cloth merchant asked in a surprised manner that why is he buying this piece only?
"This is a part of my "Kaffan" and I shall keep it wearing until I drive out Indians of my area". The handsome person answered who was actually a Lieutenant Colonel of Azad Kashmir Regiment.
May 04, 1972
Enemy attacked again with concentrated bombardment of light and heavy artillery, but couldn't move even an inch. His target was to capture "Beeru Wali Naar" to get a passage way to Lepa. Pakistani Division Commander Major General Abdul Majeed Malik planned for a counter attack. The task was given to the Lieutenant Colonel of AK Regiment. The plan was to capture "Chak Parts" situated at 9000 feet, which could protect "Beeru" from enemy attack.
This was a steep gradient from Pakistani side, with no natural cover. A full brigade of Indian soldier was deployed on Chakk Patra where as Pakistan had only a platoon to attack. Only having 4 small cannons (Maximum range 3 miles) and two mortar guns. Whereas enemy had six Medium 95 pounder guns, 12 field guns and 20 mortar guns. In order to conduct the raid, Pakistanis had to climb a 2 miles high steep gradient which was directly under enemy fire. The only climbable area was covered by minefields. Colonel decided to lead his men through this area.
At about 2100 HRS, the attack commenced. Major Yar Afzal Afridi and Major Sabir Khan Shaheed were the troop commanders. After crossing a distance of 1000 feet, it was revealed that 80 soldiers have lost their way in darkness. Now only 120 people had to conduct the raid. Colonel was monitoring the situation himself from a nearby ridge. He ordered Major Jamshed Gulzar to join the attackers and take part in raid. Suddenly the enemy came to know about the situation and laid fire of every kind of weapon. The fire was so intense that nearby trees started to fall down and the splinters of rocks began to hurt but Pakistani troops kept on moving. The jawans climbed the rest of the area in a hurried manner and finally reached near the enemy bunkers, made with thick tree trunks. Now it was Pakistan's turn. Soldiers jumped into the bunker and started shooting Indian soldiers from a distance of meters. They began to empty their weapons on enemy and hurling their grenades on the terrified running Indian soldiers. After guns they killed Indians by their bayonets. At about 5 hours after the commencing of raid, the Chakk Patra was under the feet of Pakistani soldiers.
05 May 1972
0600 HRS
Major Jamshed Gulzar was transmitting the wireless message to the Colonel. Colonel received it on wireless in a cheerful mode and encouraged Jamshed by saying,"
جمی بیٹا دشمن اندھابھی ہو چکا ہے اور ڈرپوک بھی اس سے اپنے ایک ایک جوان کا بدلہ لو کوئی زندہ نہ بچ کے جائے"

After this conversation, Colonel came out of his trench along with Major Ghulam Ahmed, Sergeant Gulzar, Corporal Kabir and Corporal Zakir Hussain. Suddenly a mortar shell exploded near them, martyring the Colonel, Major Ghulam Ahmed and Corporal Kabir. The Colonel still had his head wrapped in the piece of Kaffan. He was awarded Sitara e Jurrat for the second time for his act of valor.
Today the world knows the brave Colonel as Lieutenant Colonel Haq Nawaz Kiani Shaheed Sitara Jurrat

November 1971 Sulemanki Sector
Major Shabbir along with his fellow Major Daud (76 field artillery) was on routine round. It was night time and silence was prevailing everywhere. During round Major Daud had a cough and he stop to suppress but Maj. Shabbir noticed and came near him and asked, “What is it Daud?"
Nothing Sir, just having a little cough. Trying to suppress it so that enemy doesn't notice us" Daud replied.
"Then why are you suppressing it? Cough loudly so that enemy notices us and realize that we are alert", Shabbir replied.
Major Daud liked the logic behind Shabbir's argument. Now he stopped time to time and starts snoring. Shabbir turned to Daud and asked, “Daud have you ever been a relative to Noor Jehan or Mehdi Hassan?"
"No Sir" Daud said.
"Are you keen to sing a song for me now?" Shabbir said.
"Not at all sir. But why are you asking?" Daud said surprisingly.
"You are constantly snoring since last five minutes, I am afraid that you are going to start singing a song", Shabbir said smilingly and Daud started laughing boisterously.
Two days later Major Daud met Shabbir. Seeing the worried expression on Daud's face, Shabbir asked, “What happened?"
"Nothing sir! I have registered all the main targets in the enemy area for artillery fire but I can't locate the enemy Battalion Head Quarters. It’s very important", Daud told.
Shabbir thought for a while and said, “Well give me a day or two, I will do something".
The same day, Shabbir had a flag post meeting with Indian Company Commander Colonel Shashi Paul who was an Asami Christian. He complained that many times Pakistani soldiers cross border for their prey and it’s a serious violation. In fact, he was pointing at Major Shabbir who had crossed border a number of times after the birds he had hunted. Shabbir laughed loudly and said the Colonel to ignore the matter and offered him to gift a hunted wild boar (Asami Christians are very fond of pork). It mouth watered the Shashi Paul and he accepted the offer.
Next night at about 01:00 am, while Daud was asleep. Shabbir gnawed him to wake up. In a situation of emergency, he dragged Daud to a jeep and wrapped him in blanket. Daud kept asking what's the matter but Shabbir didn't tell him a word and kept driving. Daud saw that intelligence Havildar and Captain were sitting on the back seats with their necessary gears. Moreover, a dead pig was also tied behind the jeep with a chain. Shabbir stopped near a tall tree and said Daud to climb the tree along with the Havildar.
"What is it Sir? What is happening?” Daud asked.
"Look Daud, keep observing the enemy area with a binocular. After 10-15 minutes, a jeep will appear from a specific position and also return to the same point after some time. The place where jeep will appear and return will be the Battalion HQ". Shabbir replied.
"How can you say that it will be done? “Daud asked curiously.
"No time to waste dear be quick, جا بیٹا چڑھ جا سولی پر رام بھلی کرے گا" Shabbir pushed him.
After dropping Daud, Shabbir reached to the barrier near the enemy outpost and called the duty sergeant in a gruff voice, "Hey I am Major Shabbir Pakistani company commander, come here".
Indian soldier was very much puzzled at the moment because it never happens that an enemy company commander reach his enemy so bravely and introduce himself.
"کرنل ششی پال کدھر نیں (Where is Colonel Shashi Paul)", Shabbir asked the Sikh Havildar.
"سر تہانوں ساڈے افسر دا ناں کنویں پتا "Sir how do you know our CO's name?", stunned soldier asked.
اوئے ساڈے یار نیں او۔ اوہناں نوں فون کر کے دس جیپ بھیجن شبیر نے تحفہ بھیجیا اے He is my friend. Call him to send a jeep and tell that Shabbir has sent a gift for him", Shabbir said in the same manner.
Indians untied the pig and put near the barrier. On the other side to Daud's wonder, the same happened what Shabbir had told. A jeep came out of a well camouflaged shed and went in the trees while towing the pig and returned just after 10 minutes to the same point. When Shabbir approached the tree, Daud asked, "Sir what was that place?"
Shabbir said smiling, “My dear the place from where jeep left and returned was the enemy Battalion Head Quarter".
Daud's joy and wonder knew no bounds when he understood the whole scheme made by Shabbir when Shabbir explained that to deliver the pig to Shashi Paul; a jeep had to be sent from Battalion HQ because the vehicles are stationed there only. The departure and arrival of jeep pin pointed the BHQ. Daud kissed the hands of Shabbir with emotions of respect and homage and registered the point as 0596. In coming days of war, accurate artillery firing kept the enemy head down, which played a key role in the dominant position of Pakistan Army in this sector.
Next day, Shashi Paul send two baskets full of bananas for Major Shabbir. Instead of making a folly like Shashi Paul, Shabbir wirelessed the outpost to keep the bananas. In the midnight, he sent a foot patrol to collect the gift and distributed it among his jawans.

He was the only child of his parents. In spite of having many opportunities, he chose the option be a soldier. He loved to wear khaki uniform; in start he joined Pakistan army and later on became the part of army aviation No.3 Squadron. On July 3, 1975, he took in his Cessna L-19 air craft off from Khuzdar to Quetta air base. It was a rectification flight and he landed at Quetta (Gurkha air base).

On July 4, 1975, He took off from Quetta to Khuzdar after rectification but landed back due to some technical fault in aircraft’s engine. The aircraft was rectified once again and another officer volunteered to take the flight this time but Captain refused to endanger his colleague’s life and decided to fly the plane himself. Being the flight commandeer it was his duty to fly but the aircraft was still not safe to take a flight. Captain flew the aircraft and left towards Khuzdar. As he completed a circuit the aircraft crashed near the airfield and caught fire. The rescue squad reached within minutes but he was burnt severely. Instead of going on a stretcher, he walked to his jeep and drove towards the CMH Quetta. After battling for two days with his injuries, he embraced martyrdom. Today this unsung hero is known as Captain Sajid Nazir Chauhdary.

Captain Sajid was also the first cousin of famous Author Sir Mustanser Hussain Tarar and his younger brother Captain Mobashir Hussain Tarar.

Feni District 18 June 1971 East Pakistan

Feni was strategically an important area of East Pakistan. Bordering with Indian city of Taripura, it was a salient of 800 meters wide 2 miles long deep inside the Indian Territory. A major railroad track between Dhaka and Chittagong was situated only a few miles away from Feni. Thick jungle and Hillocks were the topographical features of this area which was captured by Mukti Bahini and Indian Army. Moreover, it was also in the range of Indian artillery. 24 Frontier Force and 20 Baluch were assigned the task to regain it.

18 June 1971 10:00 Hours

GOC 14 Division General Rahim along with Major Ali Jawahir Khan and Major Liaqat Sarwar Bokhari were on their way in the MI-8 helicopter on reconnaissance mission. While visiting the area, it was reported that the movement of 24 FF was stopped because of water and minefield. The team was also trapped between enemy artillery fires and the situation became critical within minutes. To recapture the area and making troop’s movement possible, a heliborne SSG operation was planned. At that critical time, every soldier was busy in its place; SSG was playing a vital role in this mission. To carry out the mission swiftly, it was decided to collect the SSG troops from Chittagong hill tracks, Rangamati and Mahal Chiri. Major Jawahar and Major Liaqat were assigned the task to collect.

After four hours, it was possible to collect all 22 SSG personnel present in the area. To fill up their gap, loyal Chakma tribal were positioned in the area. It was about 22:00 hours when the operation completed and relevant persons were present in the operation room. Tall trees, thick jungle, enemy positioned on the hillocks, presence of deep water bodies and flying with the transmission silent was showing it impossible to make this mission. General Rahim looked at the squadron commander and asked, “Liaqat can you do it?" "Sure Sir! Insha Allah we will", Liaqat answered. After the conference, Major Patrick Tierney, the pilot of second MI-8 asked Liaqat, “How is it possible boss?" "Pit you remember your Christ and I remember my God. We will have to do it at any cost." Liaqat replied. Patrick patted on Liana’s shoulder and said, “If it is so, you won't find me behind".

Operation was decided to be carried out by a group of twenty five commandos in two helicopters. Choppers were supposed to return after dropping the troops and rest of the operation was planned to be done by commandos.
11:30 Hours Helicopters left the base. Major Liaqat along and Major Jawahar were leading in the first helicopter while Major Ali Kuli Khan Khattak and Major Patrick Tierney were following in the second. It was a dark and cloudy night. There was complete radio silence and navigation lights were also turned off to avoid detection. There was only a land mark of bridge and a stream running through the area which was undetectable in such dark. After a struggle of 15 minutes, first helicopter selected a suitable piece of land. Major Liaqat lowered the helicopter at height of 3 meters to drop the troops but enemy spotted it and laid machine gun fire. Under the command of Major Nadir, SSG off loaded in 97 seconds. They clung to the ground and started waiting for the signal to raid as the second chopper drops the group. But unfortunately because of insufficient knowledge of area and radio silence, helicopter had strayed from the path. It was hovering around the enemy position and couldn't find a proper place to land the ground warriors.

After a struggle of 25 minutes, they were able to detect the first group and landed. The place that was selected by General Raim was right between the front and rare enemy posts. Enemy became a victim of chaos and got terribly puzzled. Front post thought that rare enemy position was captured, while rare post thought that front post was captured. Both posts opened fire of all kinds on each other while SSG just triggered the situation by firing on both of these posts. After a silence of 15 minutes, they charged on both enemy posts. Hovering of helicopters for 25 minutes had already puzzled the enemy, making them think that a heavy number has attacked them. None of them was able to cross the border alive as all of them had been killed by the SSG. The area which enemy took a week to capture was cleared in less than hour. 24 FF and 20 Baluch resumed their advance and captured the area.

"One, two, three, four or five"

What are you counting sir! Birds? (Laughter Sound)

I think so, It seems like that they were birds not jets. (Laughter Sound)

Lead I think it's a world record !

Let's see."

This conversation took place between Squadron Leader Muhammad Mehmood Alam (No. 11) and his wingman Flying Officer Masood Akhtar, right after the thirty seconds battle over Sargodha. The day started with major air attacks, but these two attackers proved to be futile and destructive for the Indian Air force.

07 September 1965
0530 Sargodha Airfield

The night of 06 September brought Canberra bombers head to head from both sides and Pakistani airfields suffered minor damages. But there was an intelligence report that Pakistan’s largest airbase “PAF Base Sargodha” (Now PAF Base Mushaf) will be attacked as the primary target of Indian Air Force. MM Alam and his fellow pilots were strapped in their aircrafts and were waiting for a signal to scramble to counter expected Indian Attack. Suddenly there was a loud roar and they caught the sight of six Mystère fighter-bomber aircrafts, pulling up out of the sunrise at a treetop height. The air base was crowded at the moment. Packed with aircrafts, fuel bowsers, aircrafts standing at the end of the airfield and parked in hangers were rewarding targets lay sprawled beneath their wings. Though Sargodha was defended by ack machine guns but there were only three aircraft in the air. Pilots of Starfighter F-104 and F-86 Sabre were watching these raiding aircrafts helplessly, strapped in their cockpits. Maintaining a tight echelon formation, the Indians pulled up at 1000-1500 ft. and fired their weapons. But surprisingly they fired at the empty tarmac area. First they fired their rockets although some jettisoned their rocket pods with the rocket in (these pods can still be seen in Peshawar PAF museum). Later on they fired their 30 MM guns and then flew towards the south west, leaving Sargodha unscathed. But this squadron was less fortunate and the time of parting, one jet was hit by Pakistan Army ack ack and the rest of two fell by the 20 mm Vulcan cannon of a patrolling Starfighter.
It was assumed that this was just a preliminary attack and there will be another one. So, a scramble was ordered for the strapped up pilots.
0610 hours Sargodha Airspace
Squadron Leader MM Alam was patrolling with his wingman Flying Officer Masood Akhtar. There was a pair of two other F-86 and a Starfighter as well in the air at that time. At 06:15 hrs. they were directed by the ground control about an incoming Indian raid.

"Contact-four hunters!", Masood said to Alam.

Alam jumped for the team of Indian hunters, but saw that there is a pair of hunters behind him. So he forgot about the four and looped back towards the pair behind. The hunters broke off their attempt to attack Sargodha and dived towards Alam. At the speed of 500 knots (1 knot is equal to 3 ground miles) and got the back of hunters. As the last man was in target sight, Alam fired first from his pair GAR-8 sidewinder air to air missile. But the missile hit the ground as both aircraft were flying only 100-150 feet high above the ground. Alam released his second missile. Making a streak behind, the missile hit the hunter. Its pilot was the Squadron Leader Onkar Nath, who was later taken as POW by ground forces.
Remaining five hunters were out of sight. In search of it, the Chenab River was crossed by Alam and Masood.
"Contract-Hunters 1'o clock", Masood called out at the radio.
Alam saw five hunters, going in an immaculate battle formation. Flying at the height of 100-200 feet above the ground, Alam came closer at the speed of 480 knots. As they were in gunfire range, they made the biggest mistake of their lives when they all broke into one direction towards left. Alam had developed a firing technique. First he fired just a half second burst from his sin 0.5 inches Browning machine guns, which punctuated the fuel tanks and then fire on the trail of kerosene oil oozing from the tanks. It was enough to lit up the aircraft. By using this technique, Alam turned all the remaining five aircraft into ball of flame.
F-86 Sabre has six 0.5 inches Browning machine guns, carrying 1800 rounds. Every fourth or fifth round is an armor piercing round and rest are HEI (High Explosive Incendiary). After shooting five air crafts when Alam returned to the base, it was calculated that Alam had consumed only four hundred rounds in this pursuit. Alam's total score in the seventeen days battle was to hit eleven aircrafts (Nine were totally destroyed and two were damaged badly but they landed safely). For this heroism and valor, Alam was awarded Sitara e Jurrat.

PS. Following is the picture of MM Alam minutes after his return from the battle of thirty seconds.

 

[CHD]

Maj. Aziz Bhatte Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider) in Hong Kong 1937

Maj. Aziz Bhatte Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider)

Maj. Aziz Bhatte Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider)

Maj. Aziz Bhatte Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider) Receiving Sowrd of Honor from First Primie Minister of Pakistan

Maj. Aziz Bhatte Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider) in Hong Kong 1937

Maj. Aziz Bhatte Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider)

June 1984
Pak-China Border
Pakistan and China opened a new horizon of friendship, harmony and brotherhood by signing various agreements. Korakoram Highway also known as Silk Route was also a part of it which proved to be a strong pillar of Pakistan's economy. This road was constructed by skilled workers of Pakistan and China and every Pakistani was happy about it. But there were some foreign elements that were not happy and they tried their best to spoil the plan of making the road. Urging the local tribesmen to create a hurdle in this regard was also a part of enemy's attempt. Basham is a prominent part of Pak-China border. Here a local tribe created contention by blocking the roads and try to make the working crew hostage. Luckily the crew escaped but the road was still under the blockage. Negotiations were held but the tribal leader refused to discuss and the demand to stop the construction of road was put. Situation was critical so a operation was planned.
Powindah Battalion conference room
SSG HQ, Cherat
A briefing by the Brigadier of SSG was being given to the SSG officials himself.
"This time you are not going to face your conventional enemy but some innocent Pakistanis who under the itch of enemy have challenged our sovereignty. These people are not our enemies but innocent minds. We have to clear the blockade and remove these people from here but I order you to avoid bloodshed as much as you can as it would be the loss of Pakistan. May Allah protect and guide you."
These were not just words but the whole philosophy behind the operation. So every commando was ready to put his best. At the decided time, the company reached the operational area. Road was blocked by the heavy rocks and a board with the warning
آگے آنا منع ہے خلاف ورزی کرنے والے کو گولی مار دی جائے گی
could be clearly seen and the rebels were positioned on the high grounds. At the signal, the commandos started climbing the mountain whereas their commander went straight towards the board. He picked the board and threw it in a nearby ditch; in the meantime enemy spotted him and opened fire. But he didn't care and carried on his work. After this he started pushing the rocks away from the road as well, with his own hands. Whereas rest of the commandos reached behind the rebels and captured them by hand even without firing a bullet. When this was all happening, Brigadier was under the constant fire by rebels but miraculously not even a single bullet touched him. After investigations the captured rebels told that they were only obeying the orders and the actual figure behind all this turmoil was their tribal leader, who was not present with them at that time. Moreover they also spotted his location in a nearby village.
There was no time to make the proper arrangements of arrest. So the Brigadier decided to arrest the tribal leader himself. Major Farooq Hamid of army aviation took the Brigadier in his MI-8 to the spotted village. A company of commandos was accompanying him in this operation. As the helicopter reached the area, a white horse was spotted tied outside a house. MI-8 was making enough noise to alert anyone. So a man from inside the house came out, riding the horse, he ran towards the mountainous terrain.
"Should I shoot him?" asked a commando his Brigadier.
"No you don't" Brigadier replied. Just take me above the horse.
Horse and helicopter both were at a fast speed, but Major Farooq took the colonel above the horse. From a height of about 45 feet, the Brigadier jumped on the horse. A short hand to hand combat took place and the Brigadier seized the tribal chief. When they were back to the base, a medical checkup was conducted on the Brigadier, who was complaining pain in his left side. X-Ray confirmed that 4 ribs of Brigadier were broken when he plunged from the height. But it was not a wonder at all because the Bigadier was famous for such acts of bravery.
Today the world knows the Lion Hearted Brigadier as Brigadier Tariq Mehmood or TM Tiger Shaheed.

Today we have lost one of our Hero (Col (r) Shuja Khanzada -Punjab Home Minister). We are deeply saddened by his sad demise and we send our condolences to his family.
May Allah give him eternal rest and may his soul rest in peace. Ameen

 

[CHD]

14 August 1947, English Channel.

A ship was on its way to London when a message was received on the radio of the Ship. Mentioning that the land of subcontinent has been divided into two independent countries namely Pakistan and India. This was an ordinary news for many passengers but some listened it very carefully. There was also a group of scouts going on jamboree in Paris and London from the subcontinent. This group had ten scouts out of which three boys were Muslim. This news became a source of pleasure as well as curiosity for them. While all this was going on, a smart and tall boy of twelve years from Rajshahi entered his cabin.
Seeing the seriousness on his face, one of his fellows asked,"Why are you so serious?"
"Iqbal! Hindu scouts have hoisted the flag of India and now they are mocking at us that what kind of Pakistani we are who don't even have their flag", the boy replied in a serious voice.
"Yes we don't have our flag buddy, what to do now?", Iqbal asked.
"We shall make one ourselves here", boy answered.
"Here on the ship?",
"Yes right here"
So, the plan was made and the procedure started. For the green part of the flag, a Turkish Girl Guide donated her scarf while the boy used his shirt to make white portion and the crescent of the flag. The flag was now prepared. Under the command of the young boy, Iqbal and the fellow Muslim boy became a troop. They hoisted the flag of Pakistan and saluted it right in front of whole ship.
Later on, the boy joined PAF and embraced martyrdom as a Squadron Leader during a raid on Halwara Airfield. Today the world knows the boy as Squadron Leader Sarfraz Ahmed Rafiqui Shaheed

August 1947
A convoy of immigrants was approaching Pakistan from Lahore-Amritsar border. They were tired and wounded but they were happy that they are going to their home Pakistan. There were chances of attacks by miscreant Hindu and Sikhs who used to raid the convoys approaching Pakistan and loot them. When the convoy was about five miles away from the border, they saw a cloud of dust behind them. It was a group of people coming towards them. The people in the group were afraid that they might be a group of raiders to attack them. When the storm came a little bit closer, the sounds of جو بولے سو نہال۔ست سری اکال confirmed that they are being attacked.
The people increased their speed to get far away from the coming mob and hide somewhere or lay their lives for their women and children. Suddenly another dust cloud was seen from the Lahore side which was much speedy. It was a truck of British Army. Now it was a threat again that it might be a truck containing Indian Army men. The truck stopped and a Soldier of Pakistan Army from Baloch Regiment jumped out. A driver was also with him.
"Come on be quick run towards the truck", loading his 303 rifle, the soldier shouted.
"We can't leave you people here like this, we will accompany you", some of the armed people in the convoy said.
"You don't have rifles and your shotguns can't hit longer. Miscreants also have shot guns; I shall hold them at a distance. If I fail then you shoot them. I have only fifty rounds", soldier replied.
The women and the children boarded the truck but the men took position along with soldier. As the first miscreant came in the firing range, the soldier fired after him, his fellows also started firing. It was an unpleasant surprise for the raiders. They were hunted like sitting ducks. Within a few minutes the whole area was cleared. All the people were boarded in the truck and taken to Walton Camp Lahore. After offloading the migrants, the soldier was about to leave, an old woman asked the soldier"پتر تیرا نام کی اے"
(Son what is your name).
With a smile the soldier replied"ماں جی میرانام پاکستان اے"
(Mother my name is Pakistan)
Then he picked up his rifle and walked away.

January 1948
PMA Kakul
A group of newly selected cadets for the 1st PMA long course reached the academy and were offloading their luggage from the truck. Some cadets were wearing fashionable clothes and some were dressed simply, but there was a cadet who was wearing Air Force Corporal's uniform. It was strange for everyone that they were selected to be the officers of Pakistan Army but this cadet was still wearing a corporal's uniform. He could be teased or taunted by others, but because of his confidence and personality that no one dared to do it.
1949
PMA Kakul
Three terms passed and the corporal became a Senior Gentleman Cadet. It was time for the lecture of Current Affairs and the SGC was standing at the door of the classroom, waiting for the Professor. But it seems like the professor was not coming to take the class. Seeing this, the SGC goes to the dice and starts lecture. He is delivering the lecture so beautifully that whole class was spell bound. Meanwhile, the commandant of PMA Brigadier Ingle enters the classroom and quietly sits at the back benches . SGC was writing on the board, so he was unaware that commandant has also entered the class. As the SGC finished the lecture, Brigadier Ingle stands up, with a mixed emotion of astonishment and praise he says,"No one can deliver a better lecture like u delivered."

March 1951
Army School of Intelligence
Quetta
Colonel Ehsan was delivering a lecture when he saw a young officer sleeping in the class. Throwing a piece of chalk towards the officer he shouted,"Hey you! Sleeping in the class, wake up"
"Sir I am awake", the officer replied.
" If u were awake, tell me what I was saying one minute ago?"
"Sir if you allow, may I come at the dice?"
"Alright come here and tell" Colonel Ehsan permitted.
To everyone's wonder, the officer came on the dice and delivered the lecture from A to Z without missing any part. Colonel Ehsan was amazed, patting the back of young man, he allowed him to go to his seat.

1962
Battle Exercise Area
Quetta
Colonel RD Khan was on his round of the exercise area. After the round, when he reached his tent, he saw his Adjutant sleeping . The radio transmitter was on and adjutant was taking a nap with headphones on the ears and the microphone in his hand. A message was being transmitted from the brigade commander. This was a very important message and it was to be responded immediately. To Colonel's surprise the adjutant woke up answered the message immediately. Colonel was very surprised and asked the Adjutant in a state of wonder’ “How did you do it? I thought you were asleep."
"I was sleeping sir, but I have trained my brain to record the message and wake me up immediately, as and when a message arrives."
There were several other incidents which proved that he was not an ordinary officer but he was a person larger than life. From a soldier to Commander in chief General Musa Khan, he was very popular. It was being predicted that this officer who started his career from an Air man, would become a general in future. Such was the piety and intellect of his personality that God chose him to be promoted above all ranks by granting him the award of martyrdom. Today the world knows the officer as Major Raja Aziz Bhatti Shaheed Nishan e Haider.

Maj Muhammad Tufail Shaheed....Nishan e Haider...
16 Punjab Regiment....7th August 1958 East Pakistan

Major Tufail was born in Hoshiarpur in 1914 and commissioned in the 16 Punjab regiment in 1943.After a distinguished career, which included several instructional and command appointments in his own Battalion and also in the Civil Armed Forces, he was posted to the East Pakistan Rifles in 1958 as a Company Commander.In august 1958, Indian troops captured a village in East Pakistan. Major Tufail divided his men in three groups and it was decided that they would launch the assault during the dark hours of 7th august. When major Tufail's group was about fifteen yards from enemy, they came under heavy fire and three bullets entered major’s stomach. Despite the shower of blood from his stomach, he kept moving forward and silenced the machinegun with a grenade. When another enemy machine-gun opened fire, killing his second in command, Major Tufail destroyed that gun too with a well-aimed grenade. During the hand-to-hand encounter that followed, he noticed the commander of the Indian post moving silently to attack one of his men. Though fatally wounded, Major Tufail crawled towards the enemy commander. He stretched out one of his legs and as the enemy stumbled he hit him in the face with his steel helmet, saving his troop,later he captured him and made him POW. Major continued directing the operation until the enemy was driven out leaving behind four dead and three prisoners. Due to loss of so much blood, major Tufail fell on the ground for a while, but then stood up again and told his senior officer who later arrived at the battle field that “I have completed my duty, the enemy is on the run”.He fell down again...Major Tufail was taken to hospital but he later died the same day on 7th Aug 1958. Due to his glorious and brave command in the battle field he was awarded Nishan E Haider.

4 September 1965
Chamb Sector
1400 hrs
Sir what's the plan to evacuate the wounded and the Martyrs?
Young man there's no plan till now...
Sir how can we go back without our brothers?
Boy this is battlefield and much has to be tolerated here.
Then allow me sir. I'll go and snatch an enemy vehicle.
Just shut up and go to your company. This is battlefield not your aunt's home where you can snatch toys from your cousin.
This was the argument taking place between a second lieutenant and the battalion adjutant Major Anwar ul Haq.
The battalion attacked enemy posts of Throti and Chakk Bhagwan area of Chamb Sector. In cover of heavy artillery and cavalry shelling, enemy laid intense fire. Pakistani troops kept on advancing. While advancing, a splinter of an artillery shell hit the right arm of the second lieutenant. Instead of stopping and getting medical aid, the officer covered his wound with his field dressing. He captured an enemy bunker and was giving his company fire support by a captured machine gun. After heavy bloodshed from both sides, the battalion received orders to retreat as a strategy, the vehicles were left across the River Tavi; to evacuate the wounded and the martyrs was the question.
It was unacceptable for the lieutenant to leave his men behind. After a while, he got an idea he went to his company, took two volunteers and entered the enemy territory after two hours when it was dark.
Threat of attack by Pakistani troops also compelled the enemy to retreat. Now the Indians were leaving their posts and retreating. After observing the situation, the lieutenant spotted an Indian made "Shaktimaan" truck., a 25 pounder howitzer along with its ammunition trailer at the sight. He ordered both of his men to go and look for the wounded and Martyrs, while he himself went towards the enemy truck.
"Hey you come here", in a loud and gruff voice, the lieutenant called a Sikh Indian sepoy who was packing up.
Being unable to differentiate between Indian and Pakistani officer because of dark, the Indian soldier approached the lieutenant in a very obedient manner. "Yes Sir", he said.
"Tie that howitzer behind the truck and also the ammunition trailer with it", with his full confidence and dominant expression, lieutenant ordered the Indian soldier.
While the Indian soldier was obeying the orders, both the men of lieutenant gathered their wounded men in the truck .The lieutenant was observing the area in great detail, noting all the prominent defensive features. As the task was completed, he decided to drive the truck himself whereas his right arm was already wounded and told his men to make the enemy soldier, who was still considering the lieutenant as his officer, sit between them.
When the lieutenant started to drive towards the Pakistani positions, the Indian soldier said in a muttered voice,
"سر جی اودھر کدھر چلے او۔ اودھر تے مسلے نیں"
(Sir why are you going there, don't you know that’s the muslim ( Pkaistani) side"
"سردار جی فیر کی ہویا آپاں وی مسلے ای آں"
(Sardar Ji so what, Don't you see we are also Pakistanis), the lieutenant said with a loud laughter. Then the Indian realized his mistake but it was too late. The arrangement for the evacuation of dead and wounded were made. The news of this action by the lieutenant spread in the unit like fire. It was very important for Pakistani side as the lieutenant observed the enemy position closely. He was called for a debriefing by the HQ, where he described all the points. Further attacks were planned which proved to be so successful that enemy feared to lose a major portion of Kashmir. The credit goes to the lieutenant.
Today the world knows brave second lieutenant as 2nd Lieutenant Shabbir Shareef from 6 FF. He was awarded Sitara e Jurrat for this act of valor.

09 September 1965
1400 hrs
Khem Karan
Sir you are hit. We should take the tank back you need medical assistance.
Don't care about me, care about the mission.
But Sir you are bleeding profusely you must go back.
Forget about my bleeding keep advancing and let no one know that I am hit. The mission must go on…
This was the conversation taking place between a Lieutenant Colonel of 6 Lancers and his wireless operator. The wireless operator didn't tell anyone about the wounded colonel until the goal was achieved
06 September 1965
Enemy attacked the western front with its full strength. To enter Lahore via Kasoor, Indians attacked with No.4 Mountaineer Division, 41 Special Brigade and No.2 independent armoured group. Whereas Pakistani side had only an infantry Division and a few tank regiments to counter the attack. But this small force not just repulsed the enemy but also a counter offensive was planned to launch.
07 September 1965
0600 hrs
Under the command of their lion hearted commander, 6 lancers were assigned the task to seize Khem Karan. The colonel selected only a squadron (1/3 of a regiment) for the attack and it was a small number of only 8 tanks. As decided the attack started on its devised time. Enemy tanks of Royal Deccan Horse were ready for an incoming Pakistani raid but colonel selected a totally unanticipated path as it was not less than an obstacle course for the tanks. Pakistani tanks started the attack from behind the enemy lines. Indian tanks started to explode like water bubbles. Pakistani OP suggested supportive artillery fire again and again but he refused by saying,"Keep the shells safe, we will use them in coming days". Many of the Indian tanks were destroyed and many crippled. Moreover about hundred enemy infantrymen were taken as POW. Not even a single Pakistani tank was damaged.
08 September 1965
0600 hrs
After a successful raid, the further campaign was ordered. A platoon of 1 FF was to accompany 6 Lancers for this strike.
"Right flank will attack will attack Khem Kran from right side and Left from the left side. Both squadrons will meet at Khem Karan Amritsar Road at 29 KM milestone", was the order issued by the Colonel. With Coordination of 1FF, the attack started. The famous No.2 armoured independent brigade of enemy tried its best to stop Pakistanis by constructing a wall of burning shells and fighting men, but the quick witted Colonel's maneuver dispersed the well organized enemy defense lines. Moreover Pakistani Artillery opened the gates of hell for the enemy and they were hunted like sitting ducks. In the east of Khem Karan, the strategically important town of Waltoha was located. It was defended by natural cover of two canals "Maachi kay mayer" (ماچی کے مائر) and "Rattu kay mayer" (رتو کے مائر) and after these canals there were bunkers of infantry. The bridges on canals were covered by artillery fire and tanks. It was a great challenge for Pakistani troops to capture Waltoha. Colonel again took a bold decision and entered the tank into the area where water was shallow. The whole squadron passed the obstacles without any loss and the advance began. A fierce battle took place and enemy was compelled to retreat. Both squadrons of Pakistani tanks kept advancing from the both sides of railway line and the enemy resistance was proving to be useless. Till 1400 hrs, enemy evacuated one of the most important towns in this sector.
A massive cache of 81 & 120 MM mortar ammunition, 90 MM antitank guns, sealed boxes of rifle ammunition, fuel drums and many military vehicles were collected from the battle field and were used against Indians. As the night prevailed, Pakistani tanks returned to base.
09 September 1965
Tank squadron raided again along with 2 companies of 1FF. Pakistani forces established a firm base and engaged the enemy at Assal Utter. Enemy fire was quite intense as every inch of the battlefield was covered with enemy tank fire. As Pakistani tanks marched towards Waltoha, enemy defense line started to shatter. After a bloody battle of two and half hours, enemy cavalry and infantry started to erode. Pakistani tanks pierced through enemy front line and there was hardly a machine gun burst or a rifle fire from Indian side. Because of the tank's movement, the whole atmosphere was covered by smog. It was necessary to observe the battle scene as such a silence is not the nature of battle. Neglecting any danger colonel stood upright in his tank by opening the hatch to observe the situation with his own eyes. Suddenly enemy launched its tank strike again. In spite hearing the explosion of the main gun and the machine guns of the tanks, colonel did not sit on his seat and kept observing the battle. Meanwhile, a machine gun burst hit him. Three bullets hit him near the heart. The burning metal passed through his chest and he started bleeding profusely. His wireless operator requested him to go back for medical aid but colonel refused. He kept on giving orders on his wireless until he breathed his last. After reciting Kalima Tayyaba, he fell on his wireless set and embraced martyrdom. His wireless operator kept this news secret and didn't tell it to anyone until the Khem Karen was seized.
Today the world knows the Lion Hearted Commander as Lieutenant Colonel Sahibzad Gull (Sitara e Jurrat).

We would like to thank his grandson Mr. Hamza Zad Gul for providing the photographs and the details.

Year 2005
Wahga Sector, Lahore
It was a usual day for the officials deployed at the gate of Wahga Border. A company of Rangers was at stand by along with some intelligence officials and a number of journalists. The exchange of prisoners was going to take place from both sides. Pakistan released some fishermen and a number of villagers who crossed the border erroneously whereas India was also going to do the same. At the fixed time, the gates were opened, cameras flashed and the groups started crossing the gates. In a group of fishermen approaching Pakistani side, there was also a tall old man. Lean, weak, wearing worn out clothes. His hands and legs were shaking; it was difficult for him to walk.
The group was taken to a border check post where NDRA officials along with concerned authorities were present for the verification of the people. Everyone went to the desk and by introducing himself; he got his permission to enter Pakistan. The whole group was verified, except for the old man as he had no tongue in his mouth to speak, his condition was enough to tell that he is mentally disoriented. With a feeling of pity, the intelligence official asked him to provide any possible details but it was not possible for the old man. He gave the old man a writing pad and asked him to write his name. With shaking hands, the old man just wrote a number 335139.
The old man was given in the charge of Rangers. The officials tried to get some possible information but it was of no use because the old man could provide nothing but just a number 335139. Intelligence officials searched for this number. It resulted to be the "Army Number" of a soldier. Now GHQ was informed and a team was sent immediately. As the team entered the room, the old man stood upright and saluted the Major Leading the team. Tears rolled down from the eyes of old man and he started saluting Major again and again. Old man was taken by the team, to the Lahore Cantonment, with a feeling of love and affection.
The old man was verified as a soldier of Azad Kashmir Regiment. He was sent to Kashmir in August 1965 for operation Gibraltar. Srinagar is such an area which is separate from rest of the Kashmir and it is connected to the other parts of the land by small bridges. These bridges had great importance and destruction of even one bridge could lead a full brigade to a failure. The group of that soldier was given the task to destroy such bridges. In operation, the soldier got badly wounded and lost his way to the rendezvous point. His companions tried to find him but they couldn't and the soldier was declared MBK (missing believed killed) in the files.

The soldier was captured by the Indian Army and was taken to prison.
Here another test of patriotism, courage and honor for the mother land begun. The soldier was tortured with every possible way to investigate. He was pierced with blunt tools, his nails were pulled, his limbs were burnt, his bones were broken but he didn't tell anything to the enemy but his number and name. Each time, when he was asked about his mission details, facilitators or hideouts, he said nothing but raised the slogan of Pakistan Zindabad. For many months, enemy kept torturing him but he told nothing. The Indian Colonel who was the in charge of investigation was being humiliated by his higher authorities. He was unable to stop the soldier from raising the slogan of Pakistan Zindabad. In the cold nights of Srinagar, when everyone was asleep and it was quiet everywhere, the soldier kept raising the Slogan of Pakistan Zindabad before the investigation unit. One day when patience of Indians ran out, they accepted their defeat and chopped off the Soldier's tongue to stop his slogans, but next day it was even more humiliating for them to see that soldier wrote Pakistan Zindabad on the walls of 6x4 cell, from the oozing blood of his chopped off tongue. The Indians accepted their defeat and finally transferred the wounded soldier to Amritsar Jail, Where he was sentenced life imprisonment by the Army Court. The Indians never disclosed the identity of that soldier to Pakistani authorities and kept him in jail.

After 40 years in 2005, the soldier was handed over to Pakistan without any proper verification. Nowadays he is under intense care of Pak Army. After a couple of weeks COAS General Ashfaq Perveiz Kayani visited CMH to meet the Soldier. The soldier stood upright and saluted the General. COAS embraced the soldier by saying “You are the finest soldier”.
The name of the Soldier is Sepoy Maqbool Hussain ( P.A No. 331539 ) Sitara e Jurrat.
The Whole nation is Proud of you Maqbool Hussain …

4 August 1983
Gilgit Sector.
A member of Belgian Mountaineering Team approached the local Army Aviation Base and requested that one of their team members need help. The team was climbing the Rakaposhi Mountain when he slipped from the gradient and wounded badly, making him unable to move. The team brought him down to Camp 5 which was located on the altitude of 5500 meters in the upstream of Jaglot Gah.
The Captain of Alouette III helicopter and his Co-Pilot Major Azam were assigned the task to bring down the Mountaineer. When the pilots reached the Base they were informed that Camp 5 is located on the height of 6000 meters. Calculations told that to carry the load from such a height, it was necessary to off load the excessive weight. So, the Co Pilot and some safety measures such as back door, seats and skis from the helicopter were removed. Moreover, some of the fuel was also drained.
When the Captain took off for the rescue, he was alone for the mission. Soon he reached adjacent to Camp 5. Altimeter was showing the reading of 6500 meters which was 200 meters more than the possible altitude taken by an Alouette III helicopter. There was no place for the chopper to land and the skis were also removed, therefore it was a very difficult task to keep the chopper stable. Showing a high level of excellence and professionalism, the pilot managed to load the wounded mountaineer in the chopper. In the meantime, the red light of fuel tank started blinking, showing that the chopper is running out of fuel. They flew back to the base making a flight of 14 minutes, while the fuel warning kept on blinking. When the chopper landed safely, there was fuel of only 1 minute remaining in the tank.
This was not just a rescue mission but it was also a world record of the highest flight taken by an Aloette III helicopter. The first record was to fly on an altitude of 19500 feet on Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, but it was broken by an altitude of 22000 feet done by the Captain.
Belgian King announced "Order of Leopold" (The Highest Award given to a foreigner by Beligain King) where as the "Aero Spatial" also announced the award for the Captain.
Today the world knows this Hero as Captain Hashim Khan ( Later Brigadier Hashim Khan).
Mr. Hashim Khan also appeared in the Pakistani Dramas "Sunehray Din" and "Alpha Bravo Charlie"

 

[CHD]

He passed out from PMA on 19th September 1971 and was posted to his unit 6FF just after the three days on 22nd September 1971. He was only 20 years old when he was sent to front line as a 2nd Lieutenant. He never participated in any battle or exercise, but he was lucky to have guidance of his Company Commander Major Shabbir Sharif.
3 December 1971
Sulemanki Sector
The young man was assigned the task to attack Bairy Wala Bridge with his 12 soldiers and capture it as soon as possible. This bridge had the key importance regarding the defense of Saboona Ridge and it was necessary to capture it at any cost, in order to have a strong hold in this sector. This bridge was guarded by a company of enemy and had the cover of two concrete bunkers with machine guns. Moreover, there were 11 pillars of the bridge, each having 40 KG of explosive tied to it. Just a push of a button was enough to shatter the bridge into pieces
The Lieutenant advanced towards the target, when he was about 200 meters away from the target he observed with binoculars that are 2 bunkers and number of soldiers on the bridge. He came closer to bridge and ordered to open fire. One enemy soldier got hit and fell into the stream flowing below the bridge. The bunkers started intense machine gun fire. Now he and his company took position and started advancing further, raising the slogans of Allah-o-Akbar. When they were about to reach the bridge, 6 of the Pakistani soldiers got hit by the enemy machine gun and rest of them kept advancing under the rain of bullets. They kept crawling until they reached the dead arc of the machine gun. The lieutenant tried to fire in the bunker by putting his Sten Gun in the fox hole, but it proved to be useless. The whole magazine was emptied but the machine guns kept firing. Meanwhile, the enemy also realized that there is someone outside the bunker. So, a grenade was thrown out but this was a delayed action grenade and it rolled down from the slope without exploding. Now the Lieutenant got an idea and threw a grenade inside the bunker and the machine guns stop firing; in the meantime, the other bunker was cleared by rest of his fellows.
The action was so rapid that the enemy had no chance to blow the bridge . The capture of bridge proved to be the key to success in this sector and later, Major Shabbir captured the remaining sector.
Today the world knows the brave Second Lieutenant as 2nd Lieutenant Farooq Afzal (Later Brigadier Farooq Afzal). He was awarded Tamgha e Jurrat for his act of valor.

At Cherat with General Shamim

At Cherat watching demonstration of SSG and SAS British special forces Joint Exercise

Brigadier TM commander SSG and Adjutant Zarrar company visiting 22nd SAS british special forces HQ

Major Raja Aziz Bhatti Shaheed (N.H) in Hong Kong

 

[CHD]

 

[CHD]

 

[CHD]

13 September 1965
In the early morning haze, a formation of four F-86 Sabres of PAF just returned from the Chawinda Sector after turning a number of Indian tanks into debris. Now Flight Lieutenants Saleem, Manzoor and Amanullah alongwith their "Sherdil Squardon Leader" were about to have a cup of tea, after submitting the mission details to their Wing Commander. The Squadron Leader belonged to East Pakistan (Dhaka), with a petite figure and lank body, he looked quite unimpressive. Due to his courage and bravery; he was called Sherdil. Suddenly, there was a buzzer they all rushed towards the briefing room.
1030 hrs Batala Gurdaspur Railway Tracks, India
The formation of four Sabres was deployed in their raid & reconnaissance mission in the area, where a train, full of arms and ammunition for the reinforcements of Indian Army in the various sectors was passing. This formation was directed to destroy this consignment.
"Lead Contact!", Called Manzoor on the RT.
"Yes No.2" said the Sherdil Squadron Leader.
"I have a visual of a train at 11'O clock" Manzoor answered.
"Copy that, let me check" Sherdil answered and dived towards the target.
Going pn a very low altitude flight, Sherdil was nearly parallel to the train. The terrified faces of civilians were enough to tell that it was a passenger train not an ammunition train.
"Negative fellows, not the target" said Squadron leader and took his plane up again.
As the Sabres reached the Gurdaspur Railway Station, they spotted a train . A long line of freight wagons was enough to tell that it wasn't an ordinary train.
"Lead! I think we are lucky this time" Saleem stuttered cheerfully on the RT.
"Let me check it Junior", Squadron leader said and dived towards the train.
Now there was only one way to check it. Sherdil opened the gun sight and fired a brief burst with its six 0.5 inches Browning Machine Guns of Sabre. The result proved devastating as the tiny burst resulted in a big explosion.
"Let's get it boys" Squadron Leader Said.
All the four sabres lined up and started emptying their guns and rocket pods on the train. The massive cache of weapons started turning into ashes. After fireworks of just 2 minutes, there was nothing left except for pieces of steel and thick clouds of smoke.
"There are some wagons left, let me take care of that" Squadron leader said and dived towards the train. The sound of machine gun burst and a huge explosion shook the air. Leader was on a tree top height, the flying splinters of train hit his plane. It was enough to crash a plane but Sherdil controlled the situation and avoided the crash.
"Lead we must return to the base, enemy would be here any moment" Amanullah said.
"No some wagons are intact, they must be destroyed. I won't allow even a single bullet to reach the Indians" Squadron Leader said and dived in the thick cloud of smoke, making the lowest flight of the course.
"There was again the whistling sound of two rockets, which resulted into the most gigantic explosion that these aviators had ever heard during the mission. They were about 200 feet above the train, but the shock waves of the explosion shook their planes like plastic toys and they were barely able to control them.
There was no hope for the Sherdil to avoid the explosion as he was very near the exploding train. "Lead are you OK?" asked Manzoor
"My canopy is full of smoke, returning to the base, said the Leader.
Pakistani Territory was only 12 miles away from the point of action and it was only a flight of one and half minute.
"Smoke is clear, now it seems alright" was the final transmission from the leader. After that it was silence
Other three sabres returned to base safely but the leader didn't. In search of Leader, a rescue operation of five hours was conducted, but it ended effortless. As it was later assumed that while descending by the parachute from his crippled Sabre, he was shot down. If he'd reached the ground alive, nothing on earth could stop him from reaching Pakistan", the legendary PAF officer Squadron Leader “Nosey” Haider said.
This Sherdil Squadron Leader was awarded Sitara e Jurrat and world knows him as Squadron Leader Alaud Din Ahmed 'Butch'.

No.14 Sqn, 1965 with OC Shabbir H.Syed & Dhakha Station commander Ghulam Haider standing 2nd & 3rd from left. The Squadron alone fought against 17 IAF squadrons and neutralized enemy in the eastern wing. ( colours added later )

 

[CHD]

Tiger Hill Top was the most strategic post at Kargil. This was the highest peak overlooking the Srinagar-Leh Highway. Although there were other active posts from where the Indian supply lines to Siachen glacier could be cut as well, Tiger Hill Top wasthe most effective. For the protection of Tiger Hill Top, the Pakistani soldiers and Kashmiri Freedom Fighters occupied the five other posts in the Tiger Hill complex. The most important was the Western Spur post, which had to be neutralized in order to launch any sort of infantry offensive on the Tiger Hill Top post.

The task of isolating the Western Spur post was given to the Indian 8 Sikh Regiment (800 - 1000 men). Later on, this regiment also participated in the capture of Tiger Hill Top. The task of bombarding this post was given to the Indian 41 Field regiment (a full field unit with massive heavy artillery capability).

Manning the Western Spur post was Captain Karnal Sher Khan with 21 ORs (Other Ranks, men who are ordinary sepoys and do not hold any specific rank).

From 26th June to 27th June, the 41 Field Regiment excessively shelled the Western Spur post with no less than 19 Howitzers, while the Indian Air Force Mirage 2000 jets flew sorties over the post and pounded the bunkers with laser guided bombs. Under these circumstances some infantrymen from 8 Sikh also fired at the posts held by Sher and his men, and 'dared them to recite the Kalima, for it will be their final one'. Obviously, the Pakistanis and the Kashmiris did not get any sleep during this time.

It was around 9:00 PM on the 27th of June 1999 that the 8 Sikh launched a fierce attack on the Western Spur post. The tired 'intruders' tried to fight back, but the sheer number of the Indians (450 - 500 men) along with the IAF and Artillery support made it impossible for them to hold on. There were not many casualties on either side, but as far as Karnal Sher's men were concerned, there didn't have to be many, as they were not great in number to start with. Karnal Sher finally retreated from the post, going to a point of lower elevation. The Indians had gotten hold of the Western Spur post. They were in a terrific position to launch the final offensive on the other posts, especially the Tiger Hill Top.

Karnal Sher was in a terrible spot. The Indians were now at an elevated position; they were much greater in number and had the support of a much bigger artillery. Unlike Sher's men they were well rested, as the enemy did not subject them to intense fire and they also had no shortage of ammunition or food.

One of Sher's men had died during the attack. Most of the others were wounded. To top it all, some Sikh soldiers were still daring them to come out and recite their final Kalima.

One of Karnal Sher's men asked him about what they were supposed to do next.

"Counter Attack", replied Sher

The stunned man gazed at Sher. Counter Attack under the circumstances was suicidal. The Indians had an advantage in every thinkable manner. They had also been fortifying their defense ever since they had taken the Western Spur.

"Counter Attack?", the man asked Sher again.

"Yes counter attack". The Indians attacked my post at night, with heavy artillery and air support. I will attack them in broad daylight with the men that I have left."

Sher had been operational in the area since November 1998. He knew the Drass Sector area inside out. He had a good idea of the positions that could be taken for an attack on the Western Spur. The 8 Sikh Regiment had not utilized any of those areas in their attack, hence Sher took the chance they were not well aware of their existence. During the night he placed his men in those positions, strategically placing the compact artillery that they had in the optimum areas. The counter attack, with 21 men, was launched on the Indians occupying the Western Spur. Sher's men were told never to stay in on position while attacking and the positions that every man was to move to and from during the attack were also identified. Every one of Sher's men was changing position to no less than 8 places.

This was the shortest battle of the entire Kargil operation, taking no more than one hour. There were many reasons for its success. First of all was the deployment. As an Indian soldier would be killed, the others would direct fire towards the area from where the fire came from. In the mean time however, the Pakistani/ Kashmiri would have changed his position to another area where he was safe from the Indian firing but still could see them.

Secondly, the Indians were not expecting an attack from the positions where Karnal Sher had deployed his men. Had they known about them in advance, they would have placed their own men over there as a defensive measure.

The third was the timing of the attack. It came at the most unexpected time, only 7 or 8 hours after the Indian offensive.

Finally, there was the sheer ferocity of the attack. Sher's men knew before going into the attack that they are going in for an impossible task. They had no fear of death, and that itself makes a better fighter during any battle.

As the 8 Sikh regiment began to retreat, Kernal Sher left his position and came out in the open. He started reciting the Kalima aloud.(LA ILLAH ILLALLA MUHAMMAD DUR RASULLULLAH) Picking up his machine gun he started charging towards the retreating forces.

"Cowards!" he said, "Where are you running off to? I will not let you run away like this."

Sher's remaining men, having suffered some casualties while they were ascending the Western Spur post, finally managed to reach on top. They replaced the Indian Flag with the Pakistani one and started chanting slogans of 'Allah O Akbar'. Sher, on the other hand, was obsessed with the retreating forces. "I am reciting the Kalima as you had dared me to." he shouted, "Where are you running off to? Stop and fight. Make this my last Kalima if you can". While saying this he was seen running after the retreating troops, firing at will, with little or no opposition except from the ongoing artillery shelling. 10 or 12 of Sher's men, who had taken up positions on the Western Spur, also opened havoc wreaking fire on the retreating troops to add to their woes.

Captain Karnal Sher followed the Indian troops until he reached the proximity of the 8 Sikh Regiment base camp.

Most of the men who had retreated from the Western Spur had come back to the base camp. The base camp already had around 300 to 400 soldiers. When the commanding officer was given the news of the counter attack at the Western Spur post, he radioed back to the Indian intelligence and cursed them for letting him believe that there were only 20 odd men in the area. He told them that at least a company strength (150 men) of militants had just attacked and retaken the Western Spur post

One of the soldiers told the Commanding officer that the enemy commander was following them down. The CO told the man not to worry as one man would not dare enter the base camp. However, he was anticipating that a much larger party of militants would attack the base camp. He ordered his men to take the necessary defensive positions.

While the 8 Sikh soldiers were taking their defensive positions, they were greeted with the sound of 'Allah O Akbar' followed by intense machine gun fire on those areas where any movement was taking place.

Anticipating a company sized attack, the CO was stunned to see one man, reciting the Kalima aloud, charging towards the center of the camp.

"Come out cowards!" Captain Sher shouted having reached the center, "I will show you how to fight a battle".

Angered by the dare inside their own camp, two Sikh soldiers tried to attack Sher. Their attack was of no avail; the captain, who had started firing in their direction the moment they tried to move, killed both.

It was apparent that this was not an attack by a complete company, but by only one man. "You are surrounded from all sides " the CO shouted to Sher, "There are no men with you. You cannot possibly kill us all. There does not have to be any unnecessary bloodshed. Lay down your weapon and Surrender".

Sher fired in the direction of the Commanding Officer's voice. "I would rather die than to surrender to you :army: " he said. While trying to continue firing, Sher realized that the ammunition in his machine gun had finished.

Seeing that he no longer had any ammunition, the Indian soldiers, including their CO, came out in the open and showed Sher that he was indeed surrounded from all sides. They started moving closer and closer to him, tightening their circle around him.

"Look around yourself" he said to Sher, "There is nothing more that you can do".

Sher looked around. There were more than fifty men who had surrounded him and could shoot him at point blank range. Instead of giving up, he started reciting the Kalima aloud once again. Seeing that the closest to him was the CO, he charged him and pushed him back by hitting him on the head with his empty machine gun. Seeing that Sher was not surrendering, and was in fact going to attack him for the second time, the 8 Sikh regiment Commanding Officer told his men to open fire on the militant.

The 8 Sikh regiment soldiers opened fire on Captain Sher. Hit many times, he tried to attack the CO for the third time, but of no avail.

Sher had always believed in not dying at the enemy's feet. He was about five feet away from the CO, who could see the desperate attempt Sher was making in not to fall down. Finally, Sher sat down, with his knees bent and touching the ground, and his machine gun still in his hand. The Kalima that he had been reciting so far became lower and lower in volume until it finally stopped. Captain Karnal Sher Khan had died.

Some of the Sikh soldiers became ecstatic that they had indeed made the 'intruder' recite his final Kalima. Two of them ran to Sher Khan's body to kick it from a sitting position into a one where his head was touching the ground.

Seeing the intent of his men, the CO ordered them to stop. He told them that this was a brave man and his body should not be desecrated at any cost. He ordered that Sher's body be brought back to Srinagar rather than being left at Tiger Hill. Upon finding out that Sher was a Pakistani Captain, he made sure that Sher gets a proper military treatment from the Indians. It was he who wrote the citation of Captain Sher, recommending him for the highest gallantry award in Pakistan. The citation can be found at Captain Sher Khan's residence in Fajounabad Charbagh, Swabi.

The government of Pakistan awarded Captain Karnal Sher Khan with Nishan-e-Haider, the country's highest gallantry award. #kargil

5 December 1971
Sector Shakkar Garh Narowal 20 Lancers Field Head Quarters
On your request and enthusiasm, I am attaching you with the troop of 2nd Lieutenant Farasat Ali Shah. Are you happy now? . This was the question asked by the battalion commander from his jawan.
Yes Sir! I will try my best to fulfill this responsibility, jawan answered.
This jawan was now in field with the troops.
It was about 2100 hrs and the night was dark, but it was being lit up by the exploding shells, fired by the 400 guns of enemy. No doubt that it was the rain of death covering every inch of the ground. Exploding shells, scattering splinters and the erupting fire made it a theater of death.
In spite of all these factors, the Jawan was observing the area with the binoculars. Suddenly, he jumped out of his bunker and rushed towards the troop commander Farasat Ali Shah.
Sir! Enemy tanks are advancing towards us in the cover of shelling. I can clearly see them, jawan told his commander.
Yes I can see them but I can't contact Captain Amin Mirza, the field telephone is out, Firasat Ali replied.
Alright sir, let me do something, jawan said. To Firasat Ali's wonder, the Jawan came out of the bunker and rushed towards the bunker of Amin Mirza, right between the exploding shells.
Within a few minutes, Amin Mirza re-directed artillery fire and now the enemy started suffering loss. Pakistani artillery fired in such a perfect way that a company of enemy was destroyed and the tanks fled back.
Shelling from the Indian side started again, jawan went out of the bunker and started shouting at the enemy.
"Hey you coward Hindus! Come forward if you dare"
7 December
It was observed that a nearby village Giddar Pur went under enemy control. Being the high ground, this village had a strategic importance.
Firasat Ali sent 4 troopers under the command of that jawan to confirm the target visual, but after half an hour, intense firing was heard from that side. Firasat Ali rushed towards the village, fearing that the small party of jawans is under attack by the Indians. But to Firasat's wonder, the four troopers had made enemy to run away from the village, leaving their supplies behind. This village was now under Pakistani control.
After a few hours, it was told by the jawan that enemy tanks are advancing towards Gajgal. Pakistani posts readied their RR Guns for the reception. As the first tank came 200 meters closer, Gunner Saif ur Rehman fired the first shot which lit the tank into flames. Now the enemy was scattered.
Indian and Pakistani guns started shelling. All this completely camouflaged the view and it became impossible to see the advancing Indian tanks. Moreover, Indian MIGs also started to fire rockets at the Pakistani posts.
In this shower of bullets and shells, everyone was in his bunker. But the jawan came out of the bunker and rushed towards Indian tanks. He located the first Indian tank and told the nearby RR Gunner. The shell was fired and the tank was blown like a water ball. He rushed towards the other gun, telling the location and the second tank was destroyed. It puzzled the enemy so much that they were unable to come forward. The attack was repulsed and the Jawan went back to Giddar Pur on his OP.
About 1800 hrs Jawan informed that enemy is gathering his infantry and armor between Guddar Pur and Khaira. Necessary welcome arrangements were made for the enemy in time.
Enemy attacked on 1900 hrs. Under the cover of armor and artillery shelling, infantry started advancing. But had to turn back.
8 December
1400 hrs, enemy tanks advanced for further attack, because of Pakistani firing; three Indian tanks were destroyed and the rest went back.
Jawan was watching all this very carefully. He observed from a high post that enemy is gathering its force in a garden, near Pakistani positions.
Jawan went to Artillery Observer Amin Mirza and informed about the enemy gathering. Intense artillery fire was sent from Pakistani guns and the enemy started to panic. In response Indian guns opened heavy fire on the high post. Amin and Farasat ordered the Jawan to pull back from the location.
"Sir I am not going anywhere", was the answer by Jawan.
After one hour the enemy MIG formation came and started firing. Two Pakistani RR guns along with their operators were destroyed. It was the first loss from Pakistani side, whereas enemy suffered hundreds of casualties and about a dozen of its armor was crushed

9 December
The guns were taken forward. But soon they were under heavy artillery fire. It was clear seen that there is an enemy observer nearby. Jawan took the responsibility to find him. Soon he located the observer on a near by tree. Fire! Fire! Jawan shouted. Farasat Ali ordered a tank to fire. The tree was blown and the observer was blown into pieces. It blinded the enemy artillery.
Farasat Ali went to his batallion commander Major Akram, who was present at the scene at that time.
What is it Farasat?, asked Major Akram.
"Sir I request you to award Tamgha e Jurrat to the Jawan", Farasat requested.
Major Akram approved the recommendation with a smile.
Enemy continued its attacks. Every attack comprised of at least a tank regiment and a battalion of infantry. Whereas there was a less than a battalion of infantry and only 4 RR guns, as 2 guns were already been destroyed.
In the mean time, a formation of 4 SU-7 jets arrived at the battle scene from Indian side. Pakistani troops requested for aerial support which was approved by sending only 2 F-86 Sabres. There was no comparison as SU-7 was far more superior than old F-86. But within a few seconds, a F-86 turned the brand new SU-7 into a ball of flames. The other 3 ran away for their lives. After destroying it, the F-86 destroyed 2 Indian tanks and flew towards the base.
After the attack, Jawan went to the trench of Farasat Ali and started telling him some jokes about Hindus and Sikhs, he was not wearing his steel helmet.
"Buddy wear your helmet. Don't you know that you are in battle field? Just a single splinter of a bomb can take your life", said Farasat to the jawan.
"Don't worry sir! I am here to die or kill. Right now I am killing, when the time will come; I will embrace death like a man", jawan said with a smile.
The jawan went to its trench and started making tea. Meanwhile, enemy started heavy shelling. But ignoring all this, jawan picked the cup of tea and went towards the trench of Farasat as if its a war movie not a war front.
Late night, jawan took a party of engineers to the front and guided them to lay land mines.
10 December
0900 hrs: Pakistani positions were under heavy fire. Enemy was firing artillery shells along with rockets by SU-7. It was like rain. At least 400 cannons were firing from the indian side and nothing could be seen but fire and dust from the exploding shells.
The Jawan was moving in this heavy fire like a thunder bolt. Carrying heavy ammunition boxes, he went zto every trench and distributed it. He also took another responsibility. He observed the position and location of every enemy tank and directed the RR guns for firing. It was not an easy task at all as the tanks were camouflaged in the dust and smoke and it was almost impossible to spot them, but the jawan went closer to the enemy tanks, come back to the gun position and directed fire. Now the enemy tanks were in defensive position as they were being blown one by one.
When an RR gun fires, it erupts heavy smoke and flame from the back side called recoil. It can be harmful for the person standing behind it. Jawan was also standing behind an RR at the time when it fired. The recoil made him fall backwards. Everyone ran towards him but he stood up quickly, telling everyone that he is alright and again rushed towards the Indian tanks.
2IC of the regiment Major Aman Ullah was present at the scene at that time. He contacted Regiment Commander Colonel Tufail Muhammad.
"Sir this jawan is really a hero and he should be given the highest military award of Pakistan", he said at the end of his conversation.
At that time, 16 Indian tanks were destroyed because of his directions. He saw another tank and rushed towards the nearby RR Gun. The RR fired and the tank also fired its machine gun. The tank was destroyed, but the jawan also fell down as he received the full burst of machine gun on his chest. He embraced shahadat but repulsed another attack by the enemy.
Today the world knows the brave Jawan as Sawar Muhammad Hussain Shaheed (Nishan e Haider),

It was after noon when the telephone bell rang at a small house of Gulberg Lahore.
"Hello! who is there?", asked the young man who answered the phone.
"Ahsan here Yar ! Tanveer had a fight at Temple Road with five gangsters of the area, do something", a frightened voice from the other side replied.
The young man put the phone down immediately, kicked his bike and almost flew towards Temple Road. When he reached there, the fight was over and Tanveer was taken to the hospital for dressing but those five gangsters were still there. The young man recognized those five, but instead of stopping there; the young man kicked his bike and left. The gangsters who were ready to fight with him were surprised to see the young man's reaction.

"Oye aa bakri, darr gaya ain?" (Punjabi)
(Hey you goat? Are you afraid?), were the remarks by the gangsters, but he didn't stop.

After half an hour the young man came back on his bike, his head was shaved and he was wearing jeans, instead of his Kurta Shalwar. It was a big but unpleasant surprise for the gangsters. The young man got off from his bike and charged at them. Within a few minutes, the young man thrashed all the five like cotton.

"Hun dass bakri kon ay?" (Punjabi)
(Now tell me who is the goat?) was the question by the young man.

After taking care of the gangsters, the young man reached the hospital, consoling his wounded friend Tanveer and said ," Don't worry yar ! I am never going to leave you alone.
"I know …", was the answer by Tanveer with a contented smile.
After 3 months, the young man, was promoted to the rank of Major in Pakistan Army. He received a phone call when he was at Sialkot, It was Ahsan on the other side saying ,"Bad news for us Yar ! Tanveer is no more; he has committed suicide last night because of his marriage issue".
Those were not just words but were a bomb which just destroyed all the senses of the Major. In a condition of trauma, Major attended the funeral of his friend.
May, 1970
After few weeks of his friends death, one day the Major came to offer Fatiha on his friend's grave, he saw an old woman at the grave. He quickly recognized her, she was the mother of his friend Tanveer.

"Maa Ji! No words to describe the grief" Major said with a heavy heart.

"But my grief is even bigger Son, Tanveer's mother told the Major that she has seen her son many times in her dream, surrounded in fire and in pain and its all because he committed suicide, Mufti sahab says that it is Azaab and it can only end if any practicing Aalim or any Shaheed is buried near his grave".

"Don't worry Maa Ji, In Sha Allah soon it will be over. Major consoled the grieved mother. "I am not going to leave him alone"

December, 1971

That Major embraced shahadat at the war front after performing a series of super heroic acts. He was buried next to Tanveer's grave as per his will.

That night Tanveer's mother saw the Major in her dream, wearing a white glowing robe, lifting a heavy sack, going somewhere in a hurry.

" Baita listen to me, where are you going?" the Mother called him in the dream.

"Maa Ji not now, its Tanveer's load and I am going to throw it somewhere", and the mother was happy to see the calm and happy face of her son Tanveer, going after the Major. After that night, his mother never saw her son disturbed in her dreams.

The Major not only proved to be the best officer of Pakistan Army, but a best son, a best brother and a best friend, who took care of his friend even after being martyred.

Today, the world knows him as Major Shabbir Shareef Shaheed Nishan e Haider

 

[PaklovesTurkiye]

 

[Talha Asif]

 

[Vapnope]

@Gamer-X cha gye sir ap to.