PESHAWAR, Sept 6: Defence Day of Pakistan was solemnly observed in Peshawar and all other garrisons of the NWFP. The Day, which renews the nations’ pledge to safeguard the frontiers of motherland against all aggressions, dawned with special prayers in all units and formation mosques throughout the province.

Wreath-laying ceremonies at the graves of martyrs, who laid down their lives while defending the motherland, were held in various parts of the NWFP. Special message of the Chief of the Army Staff was also read over to the troops in simple ceremonies at all military installations.

A special ceremony was held at the grave of Captain Karnail Sher Khan Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider, in his native town Karnail Sher Khan Kali, District Swabi, to pay homage to one of the country’s most celebrated heroes. Corps Commander Lieutenant General Ali Muhammad Jan Orakzai placed a floral wreath and offered Fateha. A smartly turned out contingent of a battalion of the Northern Light Infantry presented salute to pay respects to their great warrior officer.

Captain Karnail Sher Khan, who was commissioned in 1965 in the Sindh Regiment, laid down his life in defence of the motherland while launching a counter-offensive against the enemy at a forward location at an altitude of 18,400 feet on June 28 last year.

He, in his bid to recapture the post, not only successfully evicted the enemy but also inflicted heavy causalities on them. He himself fell, martyred in the process.

The feat of valour and daring action of the Shaheed was also acknowledged by the enemy’s Sector Commander. He, in his note of recognition, praised the courage and determination demonstrated by the Shaheed despite overwhelming odds, which forced the enemy troops to retreat. He recommended a gallantry award for this daring officer.

Captain Karnail Sher Khan is one of those brave officers of the Pakistan Army who volunteered to join the Northern Light Infantry to defend the national frontier at daunting heights near the Line of Control (LoC).

He, along with a handful of Pakistani soldiers, repulsed eight enemy attacks of two battalion-sized strength and sustained more than 12,000 artillery rounds that were pounded on his post in a bid to recapture it. The enemy troops were greatly impressed by the courageous feat and splendid battle performance of this young hero of the Pakistan Army.

His epic battlefield action earned him the highest gallantry award and he emerged as a symbol of courage and valour among the young officers of the Pakistan Army.