Pakistan

26th martyrdom anniversary of Captain Karnal Sher Khan being observed today

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Digital Desk

11 months ago

ISLAMAAD: Kargil War hero, Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider, was remembered on his 26th martyrdom anniversary on Saturday.

A shining example of unmatched courage, battlefield leadership, and patriotic zeal, Captain Sher Khan laid down his life while defending the motherland during the 1999 Kargil conflict and was posthumously awarded the Nishan-e-Haider, Pakistan’s highest military gallantry award.

Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Chief of Air Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, and the Armed Forces of Pakistan have paid tribute to Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed on his martyrdom anniversary.

In a statement, ISPR said Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed’s supreme sacrifice reflects the spirit of selflessness and devotion to duty that defines the Pakistan Armed Forces.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also paid tribute to Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed on his 26th martyrdom anniversary.

In a statement, he said Karnal Sher Khan displayed unparalleled bravery, courage, and valour on the Kargil front.

He said Karnal Sher Khan set such an example of loyalty to the homeland, a sense of duty, and fearless sacrifice in the defence of the country, which will be remembered forever.

The Prime Minister said Karnal Sher Khan and his family are a source of pride for the entire nation.

He said we salute the unwavering resolve of the soldiers of the Pakistan Army in safeguarding the country. He said Pakistan’s Armed Forces have rendered immense sacrifices for the defence of this nation.

His legacy continues to live in the hearts of the people of Pakistan and serves as a guiding light for our future generations.

Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed’s story

Born on January 1, 1970, in Nawan Kallay, Swabi district, Captain Sher Khan hailed from a family with a legacy of patriotism.

His grandfather participated in the 1948 Kashmir Freedom Movement and had always dreamed of someone from his family joining the armed forces.

It was he who affectionately gave his grandson the title of “Karnal” (Colonel), which later became an enduring part of his name. After completing his intermediate education, Sher Khan joined the prestigious Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul in 1992.

He was commissioned into the 27th Sindh Regiment on October 14, 1994, and was later posted to the 12th NLI during the Kargil conflict. Captain Sher Khan established and defended five vital posts at Gultari under intense enemy fire.

On July 5, 1999, Indian forces, backed by two battalions, launched a massive assault and managed to capture part of one post.

Defying all odds, Captain Sher Khan led a daring counterattack and reclaimed the lost ground, personally engaging the enemy in close combat.

He conducted numerous successful raids, including one where he entered an enemy camp and inflicted significant casualties. During one such fierce battle, he was fatally wounded by machine-gun fire and embraced martyrdom on the same day.

Captain Sher Khan’s battlefield heroism compelled a senior Indian Army officer to write a letter of commendation, recognizing his gallantry and recommending he be honored posthumously by Pakistan.

Captain Karnal Sher Khan and Havaldar Lalak Jan, both of the 12th NLI, embraced martyrdom in the Gultari area near Tiger Hill on July 5, 1999. In recognition of their ultimate sacrifice for Pakistan, both were posthumously awarded the Nishan-e-Haider, joining the ranks of the most revered martyrs in Pakistan’s military history.

Known as the “Lion of Kargil,” Captain Sher Khan’s valor and determination became a source of inspiration for generations of Pakistani soldiers and citizens alike.

In tribute to the national hero, a mausoleum was built at his native village where he was laid to rest. A cadet college has also been established in his honor near his hometown in Ismaila, along the Swabi-Mardan Road.

Digital Desk