Liberation War hero Capt Shahabuddin Ahmed no more

Capt Shahabuddin Ahmed, Bir Uttom, a celebrated hero of the 1971 Liberation War and a key participant in air operations including Operation Kilo Flight, passed away at the age of 77.

He died at his residence in Gulshan, Dhaka, around 8 am on Thursday, his son, Capt Taposh Ahmed, confirmed. Capt Shahabuddin had been battling age-related health issues for some time.

At the outbreak of the Liberation War, Capt Shahabuddin was a pilot with Pakistan International Airlines. He was one of the few civilians to be awarded the prestigious Bir Uttom for his bravery and outstanding contributions during the war.

Funeral prayers and a state funeral are scheduled for 4:45 pm at the BAF Base Bashar parade ground. He will be laid to rest in his hometown of Faridpur.