SWABI (MNN); The leadership of Pakistan’s armed forces on Sunday paid rich tribute to Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider) on the 27th anniversary of his martyrdom, honouring his extraordinary courage, unwavering commitment, and ultimate sacrifice in defence of the country.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, along with the armed forces, remembered the national hero for his unmatched bravery and devotion to Pakistan.
Captain Karnal Sher Khan embraced martyrdom on July 5, 1999, while leading Pakistani troops during the Kargil conflict in the snow-covered mountains along the Line of Control. The ISPR stated that he demonstrated exceptional gallantry and fearless leadership while defending the motherland against overwhelming odds.
Leading his men from the front, Captain Sher Khan fought with remarkable determination until his last breath, embodying the finest traditions of the Pakistan Army. His courage, honour, and selfless service continue to inspire generations of Pakistanis, the military said.
The armed forces reaffirmed their commitment to uphold the ideals for which Captain Sher Khan sacrificed his life, describing his legacy as a timeless symbol of patriotism, bravery, and steadfast dedication to Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Nation Remembers the Hero of Kargil
The martyrdom anniversary was also commemorated in Karnal Sher Khan village in Swabi, where people from across the region gathered at his mausoleum to offer prayers and pay their respects.
A Pakistan Army ceremony was held at the shrine, attended by Inspector General Frontier Corps Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (North), Major General Rao Imran Sarta, as the chief guest. A military contingent presented a salute to the national hero, while floral wreaths were laid at his grave.
Born on January 1, 1970, in Faujoon Abad, Captain Sher Khan initially joined the Pakistan Air Force before receiving his commission in the Pakistan Army. During the Kargil conflict, he fought valiantly in the Gultary sector at an altitude of nearly 17,000 feet, inflicting significant losses on enemy forces until attaining martyrdom.
His nephew, Numan Sher, recalled the family’s pride upon receiving news of his uncle’s sacrifice. He quoted Captain Sher Khan’s late father, Khurshid Khan, as saying that he was honoured to be the father of a martyr and remained ready to offer even greater sacrifices for Pakistan.
Numan Sher also shared memories narrated by Major (Retd.) Sardar Ejaz Ahmad Sandhu, a close friend of the martyr, who recalled that before departing for Kargil, Captain Sher Khan had confidently told his comrades that he would return wrapped in the national flag—a promise he fulfilled through his supreme sacrifice.
