SWABI: The 27th martyrdom anniversary of Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed, a celebrated war hero awarded the Nishan-e-Haider, was commemorated on Sunday. Captain Karnal Sher Khan, born in 1970 in the district of Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is remembered for his gallantry during the Kargil conflict of 1999, where he displayed resolute leadership and extraordinary courage in the face of overwhelming odds. His ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation earned him Pakistan’s highest military honor, the Nishan-e-Haider.

According to Radio Pakistan, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid homage to Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed for his unprecedented bravery and selfless service. In a statement, President Zardari described Captain Karnal Sher Khan’s sacrifice as a glowing chapter in national history, while Prime Minister Sharif, in a post on social media, emphasized the enduring legacy of the late captain’s loyalty and ultimate sacrifice, which continues to resonate in the hearts of the Pakistani people.

The Armed Forces of Pakistan, along with the Services Chiefs, also expressed profound respect for Captain Karnal Sher Khan’s unmatched courage and supreme sacrifice. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that his immortal sacrifice remains a timeless inspiration and a beacon of courage, patriotism, and steadfast commitment to Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The ISPR reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to uphold the ideals for which Captain Karnal Sher Khan laid down his life, ensuring his legacy endures in the nation’s history.

Religious scholars joined in the tributes, highlighting Captain Karnal Sher Khan’s enduring example of courage, selflessness, and patriotism. They emphasized that the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in defense of the homeland are a source of national pride and that their sacrifices represent a collective national trust and responsibility that can never be forgotten.

An impressive ceremony was held in Swabi, where Inspector General of the Frontier Corps Khyber Pakhtunkhwa North, Major General Rao Imran Sartaj, laid a floral wreath at the captain’s grave on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces. Major General Sartaj also offered fateha at the mausoleum, paying his respects to the great hero of the Kargil war.