Nation Salutes the Martyrs of September 1, 1965

On September 1, 1965, India opened another front against Pakistan, beginning a major conflict between the two countries.

As the war began, Pakistan’s armed forces and civilians stood firmly against the Indian offensive and defended the country with courage and determination.

Among the prominent Pakistani martyrs on the first day were Major Mian Raza Shah and Major Shah Nawaz, who lost their lives while fighting bravely for the country.

Major Raza Shah was given the task of capturing Chak Pandit village in the Chhamb sector amid Indian military pressure on Muzaffarabad. He showed great courage while carrying out his mission. During the fighting, an enemy shell hit his tank, and he embraced martyrdom on September 1, 1965.

On the same day, Major Shah Nawaz was also fighting on another part of the front. He was part of the force that launched a counterattack against Indian troops in the Chhamb, Jaurian and Akhnoor areas.

When Major Shah Nawaz’s company reached close to its target, intense fighting broke out. He was hit by a machine-gun burst and later died from his wounds.

His sacrifice did not go in vain. Shortly after his martyrdom, his company pushed back the enemy and captured the village of Powa.

Major Raza Shah and Major Shah Nawaz were both awarded the Tamgha-i-Shujaat posthumously for their bravery.

The nation continues to remember the courage and sacrifices of the soldiers who gave their lives while carrying out their duties during the 1965 war.