On the 58th anniversary of his martyrdom, Major Raja Aziz Bhatti, the recipient of Pakistan’s highest military gallantry award, being honored for his exceptional sacrifice during the 1965 war. This brave war hero’s legacy continues to shine brightly.
In a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Pakistan’s Armed Forces, along with the Chairman Joint Chief of Staff Committee and Services Chiefs, paid heartfelt tributes to Major Raja Aziz Bhatti. They celebrated him as a true symbol of valor during the 1965 conflict, where he stood as an unwavering shield against the enemy forces, ultimately sacrificing his life for the defense of the homeland.
Major Raja Aziz Bhatti’s martyrdom anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by Pakistan’s armed forces in safeguarding the nation. Let us collectively honor these heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our motherland; the nation takes immense pride in its gallant sons.
Every year, on September 12th, Major Bhatti’s anniversary celebrated with great fervor, highlighting the remarkable bravery of this Nishan-e-Haider recipient, Pakistan’s most prestigious gallantry award. Major Aziz Bhatti, served as a company commander in the Burki area of Lahore during the 1965 war, remembered as a true patriot.
Born in a village near Kharian, Gujarat, Aziz Bhatti moved to Pakistan before Independence in 1947 and dedicated himself to the Pakistani Army. Commissioned into the Punjab Regiment in 1950, he stationed in the Burki area of the Lahore sector.
As the company commander, Major Bhatti displayed exceptional leadership by advancing his platoon under relentless and heavy fire from Indian tanks and artillery. On September 6, 1965, he made the courageous decision to remain with his forward platoon despite incessant artillery and tank attacks, defending the strategically vital BRB Canal for five days and nights.
Throughout this harrowing ordeal, he fearlessly directed his men to return fire, even in the face of constant enemy small arms fire, tanks, and artillery attacks. His unwavering commitment to defending the canal came to a tragic end when he struck by an enemy tank shell on September 12, 1965, embracing martyrdom.
In recognition of his exemplary courage and dedication, Major Raja Aziz Bhatti posthumously awarded the Nishan-e-Haider on March 23, 1966, Pakistan’s highest military honor for gallantry. His legacy continues to inspire generations, serving as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Pakistan’s heroes who have sacrificed their lives for the nation’s defense.
