Major Shabbir Sharif’s name evokes a unique blend of valor and an unyielding will to fight, making him one of Pakistan’s most decorated military heroes. Born on April 28, 1943, in Kunjah, a town in the Gujrat District, he came from a distinguished martial family. He was the elder brother of General Raheel Sharif, who would later become the Chief of Army Staff. Major Shabbir Sharif’s lineage included Major Raja Aziz Bhatti, another Nishan-e-Haider recipient, making their family a beacon of courage. His early life was marked by a strong sense of duty and a passion for sports, particularly hockey, which he excelled at. He joined the Pakistan Army in 1964, receiving his commission into the Frontier Force Regiment. He was already a seasoned soldier by the time of the 1971 war, having earned the Sitara-e-Jurat for his gallantry during the 1965 conflict, making him the only person to hold both of these prestigious awards.
During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, Major Shabbir Sharif was a company commander in the 6th Frontier Force Regiment. His unit was deployed in the Sulemanki sector on the western front. The objective was to capture and hold a crucial bund (embankment) and a bridge, which were vital for controlling the enemy’s movements. The area was heavily fortified and defended by Indian forces, but Major Sharif was determined to succeed.
On December 3, 1971, he led his men in a daring assault. He personally cleared a minefield by walking ahead and marking the mines, allowing his troops to advance. Under heavy enemy fire, he then led a charge across a water obstacle, taking the enemy by surprise. His leadership and determination resulted in the successful capture of the objective. Over the next three days, Major Sharif and his company held their ground against repeated and ferocious counter-attacks by the Indian Army. He moved from trench to trench, inspiring his men with his courage and tactical brilliance. He was an ever-present force on the battlefield, a true leader who led by example.
On December 6, 1971, the Indian forces launched a massive assault with tank support, aiming to recapture the bund. Major Sharif, seeing a critical anti-tank gun unmanned, took control of it himself. He began firing on the enemy tanks, but as he was doing so, he was hit by a direct tank shell and was martyred. His final words to his men were, “Don’t lose the bridge,” a powerful command that his men obeyed, successfully defending the position. His ultimate sacrifice cemented his place as a hero.
For his unparalleled bravery, exceptional leadership, and ultimate sacrifice, Major Shabbir Sharif was posthumously awarded the Nishan-e-Haider. His heroic stand at the Sulemanki bund demonstrated the highest level of commitment to his duty and his country. The only individual to receive both the Sitara-e-Jurat and the Nishan-e-Haider, his legacy is one of a soldier who was, quite simply, unstoppable. His story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made to protect the nation and continues to inspire every soldier who joins the Pakistan Army.
