Rawalpindi (Web Desk): The nation is observing the 68th martyrdom anniversary of Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed, recipient of the Nishan-e-Haider, today, remembering his exceptional courage and supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.
Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed was born on July 22, 1914, in Hoshiarpur, a city in eastern Punjab.
In August 1958, he was tasked with carrying out an operation against Indian forces in the Lakshmipur area.
Although he suffered critical injuries during the mission, he refused to retreat and remained committed to completing his assigned task. With extraordinary courage, determination and devotion to duty, he accomplished the mission before making the ultimate sacrifice for his country.
President Asif Ali Zardari has paid a heartfelt tribute to Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed on his 68th martyrdom anniversary, recalling his exceptional bravery and unparalleled sacrifice in defence of the motherland.
In his message, the President said Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed secured a distinguished place in Pakistan's military history by sacrificing his life while eliminating the enemy's unlawful presence in the Lakshmipur sector.
He said the heroic sacrifice of the Nishan-e-Haider recipient would continue to be a matter of immense pride for the nation and remain an enduring source of inspiration and guidance for generations to come.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also commemorated Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed by paying tribute to him on his 68th martyrdom anniversary.
In his statement, the prime minister said the sacrifice of Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed added a lasting and glorious chapter to the country's defence history.
He said his courage and devotion to the nation remained a source of honour for the entire country and provided a powerful example for future generations.
PM Shehbaz stressed that the nation would always remember and honour the sacrifices made by its martyrs.
Service Chiefs, armed forces pay tribute to Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and the Armed Forces of Pakistan have commemorate the 68th martyrdom anniversary of Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider, paying profound tribute to his extraordinary bravery, unwavering devotion to duty and supreme sacrifice in safeguarding the nation.
“Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed displayed extraordinary bravery and unwavering resolve as he led his troops in a daring assault against enemy forces.
Despite being critically wounded, he fought on with indomitable courage and steadfast determination, ensuring the successful completion of his mission. His conspicuous gallantry and supreme sacrifice earned him the Nishan-e-Haider, the nation’s highest military honour and the ultimate symbol of valour,” said a statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The military's media wing said that on this solemn occasion, the people and Armed Forces of Pakistan pay glowing tribute to Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed and to all martyrs who have laid down their lives in defence of the motherland.
"Their legacy of courage and patriotism continues to inspire generations and stands as a beacon for all defenders of the nation," the ISPR said.