Captain Ghulam Hussain Shaheed (Sitara-i-Jur’at)
The Brave Son of Mianwali Who Immortalized Courage During the Kargil War
Early Life and Background
Captain Ghulam Hussain Shaheed was born on January 1, 1972, in a small village of Chak No. 18-ML, Tehsil Piplan, District Mianwali, Punjab, Pakistan. From his early years, he displayed traits of discipline, patriotism, and leadership that later defined his military career. Coming from a humble yet proud background, he embodied the values of hard work, devotion, and service to the nation.
Military Career and Training
He joined the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) and was part of the 85th Long Course, earning his commission on October 14, 1992. After completing his rigorous training, he was posted to 4 Sind Regiment and later served with 13 Northern Light Infantry (13 NLI) — famously known as the “Shingo Guards”.
The “Shingo Guards” were a renowned unit within the Northern Light Infantry, known for their unmatched bravery and resilience in Pakistan’s northern mountainous frontiers. These soldiers were trained to operate in the most difficult high-altitude terrains where courage and endurance were constantly tested.
Heroism in the Kargil Conflict (1999)
During the Kargil Conflict, Captain Ghulam Hussain Shaheed emerged as a symbol of valor and self-sacrifice. Imbued with a deep sense of duty and military pride, he volunteered to serve in one of the toughest operational zones — the Javed Sub-Sector of Shaqma War Zone.
From his forward post, Captain Hussain played a crucial role in cutting off the enemy’s lifeline, the Dras–Kargil road, by targeting Indian convoys using his 57mm gun. His relentless engagement kept the vital supply route closed for more than two weeks, inflicting significant losses on the enemy.
Despite being under continuous and heavy enemy fire — including artillery, mortars, and direct weapon fire — Captain Ghulam Hussain stood undeterred at his position, displaying extraordinary courage and tactical brilliance.
The Supreme Sacrifice
On September 6, 1998, Pakistan’s Defence Day, Captain Ghulam Hussain met his ultimate destiny. While courageously directing the fire of his 57mm gun at a heavy enemy cargo truck on the Dras–Kargil road, an anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) struck his position. The explosion was fatal, and this lion-hearted officer embraced Shahadat (martyrdom) at 1315 hours.
His fearless action destroyed the enemy vehicle, fulfilling his mission to the last breath. Captain Ghulam Hussain’s unwavering bravery and sacrifice earned him the Sitara-i-Jur’at (Star of Courage) — one of Pakistan’s highest gallantry awards, bestowed posthumously.
Legacy and Resting Place
Captain Ghulam Hussain Shaheed’s body was laid to rest with full military honors in the graveyard of his native village, Chak No. 18-ML, Tehsil Piplan, District Mianwali. His resting place has since become a site of pride and remembrance for the people of Mianwali, who regard him as one of their brightest and bravest sons.
His name lives on in the annals of Pakistan Army history — a story of unwavering faith, professional excellence, and supreme sacrifice for the homeland.
Remembering a National Hero
Captain Ghulam Hussain Shaheed represents the best of Pakistan’s military tradition — courage in adversity, selflessness in service, and sacrifice for the nation’s honor. His actions during the Kargil War not only exemplified personal bravery but also significantly contributed to Pakistan’s defense efforts in some of the world’s harshest combat terrains.
Mianwali takes immense pride in producing such a noble warrior, whose legacy continues to inspire generations of young Pakistanis to serve their motherland with the same devotion and bravery.
May Allah Almighty elevate the ranks of Captain Ghulam Hussain Shaheed (Sitara-i-Jur’at) and bless his soul with eternal peace. Ameen.