Saira Imran On September 2, a militant attack struck a military center in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In this deadly clash, Pakistan Army’s Special Services Group (SSG) officer Major Adnan Aslam lost his life while defending his comrades. His funeral was held with full honor, attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir.
The Prime Minister paid rich tribute to the fallen soldier, saying, “His courage will always be remembered.”
Early Life and Education of Major Adnan Aslam
Major Adnan was born on July 20, 1994, in Rawalpindi. From a young age, he showed passion for adventure and sports. He later graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom, one of the world’s most prestigious military institutions.
He went on to join the SSG, Pakistan’s elite commando force, where he earned respect for his dedication and training.
Courage in Bannu
A viral video on social media shows Major Adnan shielding a fellow soldier with his own body during the Bannu attack. People praised his bravery, calling it a rare moment when two soldiers fought not just the enemy, but also to protect each other.
According to his relative, Advocate Yousuf Khan, Major Adnan had already taken down two terrorists before he was shot in the leg by another. Despite being injured, he immediately focused on protecting his comrades.
“Sometimes Major Adnan became the shield, and sometimes his comrades did,” Yousuf Khan said. “In this fight to save each other, he stood strong as a trained commando.”
A Fierce Encounter
During the clash, the terrorist fired repeatedly and tried to use a hand grenade. He also wore a suicide vest. Major Adnan fought back bravely. Eventually, Army fire hit the attacker, causing both the grenade and vest to explode, killing him.
This intense exchange highlighted the courage and quick thinking of Major Adnan and his fellow soldiers.
A Battle for Life
After the attack, Major Adnan was rushed to a hospital in Peshawar and later shifted to Rawalpindi. His blood group was rare (A negative), so family and friends arranged 40 units of blood.
For seven days, his loved ones stayed by his side. He drifted in and out of consciousness, while doctors struggled to save him. Infection spread through his body, and doctors suggested amputating his leg. The family hesitated at this painful decision, but before surgery could take place, Major Adnan passed away.
Family Left Behind
Major Adnan left behind a grieving wife, a young son aged two and a half, and a baby daughter just six months old. He had never held his daughter in his arms, as he was on duty when she was born. “He was eager to hold her,” his family recalled with tears.
He had planned to spend his leave with his family in Abbottabad. His parents were also waiting for him in Rawalpindi, but instead they received him for his funeral — a moment they faced with courage.
Passion for Adventure Since Childhood
Major Adnan’s relatives described him as an adventure-loving child. His family had moved from Swat to Rawalpindi decades ago, where his father worked as a postman. From a young age, Adnan showed talent in athletics and sports.
His uncle, a decorated athlete and trainer, guided him in martial arts, swimming, paragliding, and boxing. These skills shaped him into a strong and fearless commando.
Imran Ahmed, his maternal uncle shared, “We lived in the same house. I was his teacher as well as his friend. He always loved adventure.”
Strength in the Face of Tragedy
Major Adnan’s family had already faced tragedy years ago when his mother lost her young son Rizwan. Even then, she showed courage. After Adnan’s death, she once again displayed the same strength.
His wife, who was also his cousin, has shown resilience despite the immense loss. His relatives describe both women as symbols of bravery, just like Major Adnan himself.
Remembered as a Hero
Photos of Major Adnan from his younger days show him proudly receiving awards in karate competitions. His passion for excellence was clear long before he joined the Army.
Frontier Constabulary commander Zulfiqar Khan, who led the defense during the Bannu attack, confirmed that the unit fought bravely and also saved civilians. He said the soldiers remained alert and carried out the operation as instructed.
Major Adnan Aslam: A Legacy of Bravery
Major Adnan Aslam’s story is more than that of a soldier. It is a tale of courage, sacrifice, family love, and unfulfilled dreams. He died shielding his comrades, leaving behind a legacy of bravery that Pakistan will always remember.
