Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw was one of the great army commanders and tough soldiers. He was the first Indian to hold the rank of Field Marshal. Whenever the name of field marshal is mentioned, Manekshaw was never forgotten in the talks. The statue of Sam Manekshaw in Allahabad SSB campus shows the glare, which still speaks louder than any other thing there. He is the seed of motivation for most of the soldiers. His Quotes, comments and decisions are still praised and termed as most influential. To ignite the sense of motivation, all SSB aspirants must know some facts about the star of the Indian army.
- Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw – His actual or complete name was Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw. He was born on 14 April 1914 in Amritsar, Punjab in a Parsi Family.
- Fought 5 Wars – After going into service in the British army during World War II, he has faced 5 wars in his service time. He led the Indian Army in Indo Pak war 1971 and ultimately brought India victorious in the war, resulting in the liberation of Bangladesh.
- Service Extended By 6 Months – He was ordered by the President in 1972 for extension of service for the next 6 months. Manekshaw was not willing and have decided to leave the service on the given time. But the direct order of the president was released to make him continue the service.
- Amazing Responder Of The Tricky Question – He always gave the best reply to all tough questions. His comments over Gorkha regiment were – If someone tells you he is never afraid, he is a liar or a Gorkha. The similar amazing response have been given by him in his lifetime. Ones he was asked that what would have happened if he had chosen Pakistan at the time of partition, he replied: “Then I guess, Pakistan would have won.”
- A Great Decision Taker – In 1971, when Pakistani aircraft blew the airfields of the western sector, Manekshaw informed PM that the war has begun, rather than seeking permission for initiating it. After that, he ordered the eastern command to proceed.
- Honoured For His Elite Commanding – Being a beloved of Gorkha, he was welcomed by Nepal as honorary general of their army in 1972. He was also awarded Padma Vibhushan in 1972 and was given the rank of field marshal in 1973. He was also the 8th chief of army staff.
- Totally A Great Personality – He was one of the most influential people of his times. Being the top leader of the army, he was also a kind and enthusiastic man. His shine spread all around the nation, when India won the Indo – Pak war in 1971, marking a milestone in Indian history.
He was a king of the army then, an emblem of bravery and discipline now and will be a hard-core motivation in future. India will remember him as one of the great commanders who brought India victory in one of the most critical wars in the chapters of history.
“When Going Gets Tough, Tough Gets Going” Jai Hind.
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