Our Heroes need their identity back - Pakistan Army

[ghazi52]

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).

 

[khansaheeb]

@ghazi52, thank you for sharing these.

 

[ziaulislam]

In modern day Pakistan, some of the youngsters have never even heard of "East Pakistan".

I don't know whether this has been deliberately and systematically written out of Pakistani history or whether Pakistan has simply been overwhelmed by other geostrategic events in South, Central and Western Asia, especially Afghanistan.

written out of history, as Pakistanis are ashamed of their failure. Also, there are political forces like PPPP, army and legacy PML leaders that dont want to show their/their ancestors role in this disaster

3 decades of neglect by army intelligence, followed by brutal politics of Bhutto and you have east Pakistan turn into Bangladesh.... A un winable war and disgraceful surrender

 

[Khurram2349]

Beautiful post ! I salute dear Ghazi52 for sharing these stories of our brave soldiers which should be written in golden words ! By the way there are so many more unbelievable stories like these by our brave soldiers and to record all those require a life time . Yes ! I also believe that our traitors and mother selling politicians and their cronies have tried their best to bring bad name to our military which in reality at present is the only institution saving Pakistan . Our current and former military people and all patriotic Pakistanis must be feeling sad for this . I , however, believe that these brave men fight for Allah and its Allah who have best reward for them ! A reward which no one else can give them on this planet ! An unending life in Jannat !!!!!

 

[ghazi52]

March 1989
Chumik Sector

Indian Artillery was shelling Pakistani posts for the last 10 days. Mortar, howitzer and every kind of heavy and light artillery was fired on Pakistani Posts. Though Indians were given a jaw breaking reply by Pakistani Artillery as well but higher authorities were of the view that this shelling is just a deceptive move and under its cover, Indians are going to achieve any other goal. So, a reconnaissance mission was planned.


16th April 1989
Chumik Sector

As it was a sensitive matter, Brigade Commander Riaz Bukhari along with Major Husnain Mehdi decided to take the reconnaissance flight themselves early in the morning. As he established visual contact, they were surprised to see that in cover of bombardment, enemy was advancing towards the highest post of the sector (22000 feet). They established five posts named Ganga, Sadhu, Agra 1, Agra 2 and MG. The helicopter was in flight when Indians spotted it and they opened fire from every kind of weapons present at that time. In spite of this potential threat, Major Mehdi kept flying and completed the full arc. It was alarming that Indians were only at a distance of hours from the peak.
The situation was critical as the capturing this post means to keep half of the Siachen under observation. In such a short time it was impossible to reach the peak from Pakistani Side.

Northern Force Commander Major General Ayyaz Ahmed and Brigadier Riaz Bukhari had a long discussion with Corp Commander Lt. General Imran and initially it was decided to capture a saddle between Indian posts Sadhu and MG. It could stop the Indian advance from the lower side but they could also shoot at the enemy on higher grounds moreover it also gave a passage to Pakistanis to the highest peak. Captain Kausar Habib and his Lieutenant along with 10 soldiers were assigned the task. They successfully established their post at the bottom of saddle. Now it was an 80 Degree climb to reach the saddle. Such a steep gradient was very difficult to achieve by a human even in 3 days and the enemy was just hours away from the peak.
Captain Javed, Captain Fayyaz and Captain Jeelani volunteered for the mission to climb the gradient. They just left for the saddle when an avalanche hit them and the three officers were lost forever. Another attempt was made to land the commandos on the saddle but due to rough weather and unavailability of dropping zone, but in vain. Now it was a now or never situation. It was decided to hang the commandos with sling and drop them on the top.


This decision created a problem for the commanders as everyone was volunteering to go for the mission even the Brigade Commander himself was ready to go. But after a long discussion, two men named Lieutenant Naveed from 9 AK Regiment and Naik Yaqub from SSG were chosen to land on the top while Captain Sehgal and Captain Zia were chosen to pick them to the peak.


19th April 1989
0930 hrs

Captain Sehgal and Captain Zia tied Naveed to the sling and flew for the top. It was more than -40 and the helicopter was on the speed of about 70kmph. Captain Sehgal was worried about Naveed that how he will survive in such a harsh climate. But Naveed waved to Sehgal when he saw him looking down. At 09:35 Naveed was dropped at the peak. After 10 minutes at 09:50 Naik Yaqub was also dropped near him. It was about 350 feet more to climb to reach the highest point which they completed in less than 30 minutes. Indians could not see them from this point.

Just after the 40 minutes of their landing, a heavy snow storm broke out. It was a great responsibility on the shoulders of both Naveed and Yaqub to hold their position. The storm continued for the whole day and whole night. Yaqub and Naveed both were worried for each other. Yaqub kept feeding his chocolate to Naveed while Naveed kept on making him drink the coffee which he carried in a flask inside his jacket. While all this was happening, Pakistani signal officers intercepted an enemy transmission. The post commander was telling the base commander to about the landing of Pakistani troops on the peak but base commander refused to accept that such a landing can be made in this area. The storm continued for 36 hours. Naveed and Yaqub faced this storm as they were uncovered in this harsh climate even without the survival supplies, while Indians were properly organized to capture the peak.

21st April 1989
0900 hrs

The weather became clear and Brigadier Bukhari flew towards the peak himself. He feared that both soldiers might have embraced Shahadat as such a harsh weather was enough to kill even ghosts. But it was a great moment of joy for him to see that both were safe and sound. He dropped a wireless set for them on the top and left for the base.

21st April 1989
1000 hrs

8 Jawans of SSG also landed the peak under the intense firing of Indians. Seeing this, the Indians also tried to land their men on the top but it was useless as the post was already captured. They started their advance towards the top but it was impossible for them. Pakistanis laid fire on them; the Indians were like sitting ducks. Pakistanis intercepted an enemy transmission mentioning that the whole company has been wiped out. Pakistani OP also directed the artillery fire from this post which later destroyed Ganga, Agra , Agra 2 and Sadhu. Moreover the soldiers travelling between these posts were also finished. It made Indians to evacuate from all the major posts of the sector.

 

[ghazi52]

3 December 1971
1330 HRS

"Tauheed! I repeat Tauheed" Lieutenant Colonel Ali Imam, the commanding officer received this message from his Brigade Head Quarter. After having a round of all companies, he went straight to the Bravo Company.

"Look young man, the company has a rich tradition of valor, never let anyone say that 1971 proved fatal for the battalion", with a heavy heart, Colonel said to the Major (Company Commander). Major immediately called his R Group (Reconnaissance Group) and ordered them to march forward as per their SOP (Standard Operation Procedure).

1630 Hours

Company Commander went to see his colleague, the Delta Company Commander Major Ghazi ud Din Rana. Clad in the fit uniform, having a side arm, a G-3 Rifle on the shoulder, a machete tied to the leg and a grenade in the hand, which he was tossing like a tennis ball.
"Buddy don't you think the rifle, grenade and machete is just an extra luggage for you an officer?", Ghazi asked major in a surprised manner.

"Sir actually I have done all this to build up the little bit moral of my jawans, don't you know that we are going on a little war?" with a wink, the Major replied smiling.
"That's alright but where is your hamlet? Don't you want to save your head?" Ghazi asked
"Sir that's an additional burden, it irritates me", Major replied.

"You better put that burden my dear and better stop playing with the grenade, its not a toy". Ghazi said angrily.

"Really"?, major said skeptically and both friends laughed.
Major requested Ghazi to cover the right flank of Bravo Company as this flank was to play a vital role during raid.

0730 Hours

Major was assigned the task to capture the "Gurmukhera Bridge" and capture the "Saboona Ridge", which was the backbone of enemy defence in the area. This goal was successfully achieved and now major was positing the defence.

2100 Hours

As per the orders of Indian Brigade Commander Surjeet Singh, 4 Jaat regiment and squadron of T-54 tanks was ordered to recapture the area.

Major was busy in setting up the trenches when he heard the distant noise of tanks. To welcome the enemy, the 3.5 Rocket launcher and the Energa Grenade were placed. As the tank passed by the troop nearest to the position, the Major took the rocket launcher and fired. The light of burning tank exposed the position of advancing Indians and tanks as well. Pakistani troops laid intense fire and two more tanks were lit up. The Indians were hunted like sitting ducks. These tanks kept on burning and the ammunition exploded inside them for the whole night.

04 December 1971
0700 Hours

An operation was launched in the area to search for the enemy soldiers hidden in the area. Major was leading the operation himself, when his jawans noticed someone on a tree. Major ordered him to come down. As he descended the tree, he was found as the 2nd Lieutenant, the OP of Indian Artillery. Meanwhile, the jawans also brought a Risaldar who was a Muslim. After frisking the stack of Slidex cards was recovered from him. These cards contained the cipher codes for wireless transmission. Bottles of liquor, dirty pictures, uniforms, playing cards, beverages, a huge pile of Indian currency and a fixed frequency wireless set was recovered from these bunkers.
Major ordered to burn some part of the currency to make tea as the there was short of firewood in the area and took the wireless set himself. This set was still tuned on the frequency of Indian brigade head quarters and the transmission was on, which was showing all the activities of Indians in that area.

2030 Hours
Enemy launched a full scale attack to take the position. The enemy wireless communication had shown the direction of enemy attack, so Major had received the information already and deployed anti tank weapons on respective positions and a hot engagement was ready for the enemy. Attack was repulsed vigorously. Having fourteen personnel killed, twenty one injured and eight missing, the enemy ran away.

05 December
1971 2000 HRS

Indian 4 Jaat along with a large number of T-54 tanks, launched a massive attack. They were attacking in waves after waves. Infantry and artillery laid burning iron on Pakistani positions. Everyone on the Pakistani side took cover in trenches. Pakistan Army held their fire until the Indian infantry reached close to their position.

Major Narayan Singh the company commander of 4 Jaat regiment reached near the trench of Major, he shouted loudly,"Where is your commander, tell him to come out and fight with me", Major who was listening enemy transmission on the captured wireless set, got furious; Jumped out of his trench and ran towards Narayan. Narayan tossed a phosphorus grenade towards Major, which exploded, setting fire on the uniform of major. Without caring about it, major jumped on Narayan, throwing him on the ground, Major emptied the magazine on his chest with Narayan's own sten gun. Pakistani and Indian soldiers were seeing it like armed spectators. Indians ran back while Pakistani soldiers started shooting them with their weapons while the dead body of Narayan was sent to Pakistani Battalion Head Quarters. Indians tanks were just 2 meters away from Pakistani Posts which were repulsed only by the fire of Energa Grenade, Rocket Launcher and artillery. Indian Cavalry lost nine tanks, 19 men were killed and 34 captured whereas Pakistan lost its 3 person killed and eleven injured.

06 December
1971 1100 HRS

After a shelling of four hours, enemy started its attack. It was the first time since 3 December that enemy was attacking in the broad day light. Tanks were advancing from everywhere. Major himself was Manning a 106 MM antitank weapon, suddenly his No.2 spotted two tanks advancing, major took the sight and fired. First tank exploded like a water balloon. The second was also approaching behind it in a ready to fire position. In spite of running or leaving his position, Major orderd to load the second round in the cannon. Major fired while the tank also shot at the same time. The tank was lit to flames but its shell also exploded near Major, tossing him meters high. When the Major landed on the ground, he was martyred.

Today the world knows the valiant officer as Major Shabbir Shareef Shaheed Nishan e Haider.

(After the martyrdom of Major Shabbir Captain Hudayat Ullah Khan took over the company. 6FF repulsed the attack of 6 December as well. This sector remained under the control of Pakistan Army until ceasefire. Every attempt to retake the area by Indian Army proved to be useless).

 

[ghazi52]

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.

 

[ghazi52]

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

 

[ghazi52]

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.

 

[ghazi52]

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).

 

[ghazi52]

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)

 

[ghazi52]

May 18, 2009 1430 HRS

"Khalid I have to repay so much to my mother land. Make sure that you do it well."
"What are you saying? What happened?" "Listen to me very carefully. Take good care of Maan ji and my children after me. It’s your responsibility. I wish I could walk freely in the streets of Mingora as we used to in college days."

"What happened brother. Tell me."
"I am hit."
"Oh come on, a bullet or two can’t harm you. Sending you backup don't worry it will be with you in a few minutes."
"Roger"
"Roger Out"

This was the wireless communication between two brothers, fighting at the same front securing the flanks of their respective battalions. Major Khalid Majeed of19 Punjab was assigned the task to secure from Shalapalu to Jura while his elder brother Major Abid Majeed had to secure from Jura to Nazarabad, which was done very efficiently. Khalid was ordered to secure the area while his elder brother Major Adib was ordered to move forward.
Leading a convoy of 13 vehicles, he left the area. As the convoy crossed a road bend, the last vehicle came under heavy enemy fire. The driver and a soldier were martyred on the spot while Sepoy Tariq and Sepoy Nowsherwan were injured badly. Going to rescue them was out of question as the heavy shower of bullet was covering every inch of ground. It was clear that the two soldiers will die as they were not only injured and bleeding profusely but also they were in the enemy firing range. Major Abid decided to help his comrades. Everyone was tense at the moment, he decided go himself.

"Lay down cover fire", he shouted and while cover fire was on, he went himself to take his men out.
Between the showers of bullets, he picked up both the soldiers one by one and brought them to a safer zone.
"Sir please leave us and go. Please leave us and go", Tariq and Nowsherwan were requesting, but Major Abid ignored and started bandaging their wounds. His shoulder was exposed and a terrorist who saw him taking his men behind a rock, fired at him. Maj. Abid was hit. Ignoring the injury he kept on nursing his men but another enemy bullet hit him in the ribs. Blood started to flow profusely. It was clear now that this area was under enemy fire as well, so he picked up his men and shifted them to the place where enemy had no access. But in this whole process, he received three more bullets and was badly injured. He took out his wireless set and talked to his brother Major Khalid who was just 100 meters away from him.

Khalid was feeling very tense after the communication. He himself got hit on his left arm by a bullet. Cleverly deploying his men he charged and the group of terrorists was eradicated within minutes. Now he took out his wireless and called his brother, but no reply from the other side. He rushed toward his brother’s position.
What he saw was unexpected and shocking for him. His brother was lying on the ground motionless in his blood soaked uniform, his gear lying beside him while his men were listening to injured Tariq and Nowsehrwan who were telling that how Major Abid laid his life to save them.

Why Major Saab? Why us Sir ji? in a voice filled with tears Tariq and Nowsherwan asked and Khalid leaned his head in a state of silence….

Both Brothers Major Abid and Major Khalid volunteered for this mission.

 

[ghazi52]

 

[ghazi52]

April 1989

Captain Sadaqat from the electronic warfare cell intercepted an enemy transmission. A person named Captain Vijay Kumar was asking his base to have the photographs of two specific peaks under Pakistani occupation, named as Nusrat and Nasreen. He presented this report to the Major, his Company commander from 1 Commando Battalion. It was an alert that Indians are going to do any misadventure in this area.

Major sent this report to Brigadier Riaz Bukhari, who understood the sensitivity of the matter and decided to do aerial reconnaissance himself. After a short aerial view of the area, he spotted some moving dots heading towards the peak. It was an alarming situation that enemy is soon going to reach the post. 9 Azad Kashmir Regiment was assigned to block the way of intruders. But they were far away from Indians and because of adverse weather and snow walls; they might not make it in time. Now the situation was more adverse.

It was decided to drop commandos through helicopters, but it proved to be useless as there was no place for them to land. Now it was decided to do a sling operation. 11 commandos from 1 Commando were decided to be dropped on the peak hanging from the helicopter with a rope. Just before the commencement of the first flight, a storm broke out in the area. Though it was very risky but it was decided to continue the mission. One after the other, 11 commandos were dropped. Indians were only able to hear the noise of helicopter but were unable to see it as thick fog covered everything. Captain Sadaqat was still scanning the enemy wireless transmission.

Vijay Kumar was leading the Indian party, he told this situation to his base headquarters, but they did not believe that any flight can be made in this area. Luckily the wind from North to South started blowing which shifted the fog towards Indians. The fog covered their anti glare goggles and they were unable to see far. Major was observing this situation very closely as he was leader of the 11 commandos. He signaled his men to move forward. When they were just 15 meters away from the Indians, Major fired warning shots and shouted, "1 commando has surrounded you. Drop your weapons and surrender, we will let you go. Otherwise we guarantee your death."

They refused to surrender. It was actually the initial patrol by Indians. Pakistani commandos opened fire and a bloody battle started.
"A battalion of Pakistanis is already on the peak, send back up", in a harassed voice, Vijay Kumar sent a message on wireless.

Indians started to climb the ropes, but Pakistani commandos made it impossible by opening gates of hell on them. They tried to climb again and again but it was impossible for them. During all this, major was observing the area below the peak. A notable concentration of the enemy was observed. He ordered his men to take cover behind the rocks and contacted Major Abdul Haq of Artillery.

"We can't fire. Don't have the idea of your location. You can get hit as well", Haq hesitated.
"Don't hesitate, I will direct you about the enemy location.", Lion hearted Major replied.

The first two shells landed near Pakistanis, but soon it was shifted on the enemy. For a period of 3 hours, Pakistan Artillery kept on shelling the Indians. At about 11:00 pm, Major saw the Indians cutting their ropes and burning their camp to retreat. After a short period of 15 minutes, everyone was gone.
Major was called to the base camp, where he was personally congratulated by General Ali Kuli Khan. Later he was awarded Sitara e Jurrat.


Today the world knows the hero as Brigadier Abdul Rehman Bilal.

 

[ghazi52]

..

Aircraft Man, Karnal Sher Khan, Later on Captain karnal sher Khan Shaheed ( Nishan e Haider)......
He joined PAF as an Airman in the year 1988. He was given Pak No 853149. He served in PAF, in Electric Trade. When he got commission in Pak Army, he was Junior Technician and was posted at PAF Academy Risalpur. This picture was taken at Pre Trade Training School ( PTTS ) Kohat.

Capt. Kernal Sher Khan Shaheed (N.H) with his course-mate and room-mate Capt Raja Mobeen Ahmed Janjua. 1st Term 90th PMA Long Course.

Capt Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed N.H in P.M.A Kakul (1992-1993).

Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed Nishan e Haider ( extreme right ) Okara Cantt, 27 Sind Regt.