Manekshaw was one of India's greatest soldiers: PM

New Delhi, Jun 27 (UNI) Expressing deep grief over the death of Field Marshal Sam H F J Manekshaw, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today described him as one of the country's greatest soldiers ''whose legacy will continue to live with us for years to come.'' ''Military historians will forever record the brilliance and the inspirational leadership of 'Sam Bahadur','' said Dr Singh in a condolence message.

The Prime Minister recalled how ''he served the Indian Army with great distinction for over four decades beginning with the very first military engagement when free India was dragged into the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir. 'Sam Bahadur' was the architect and the inspiring leader of the operations and the consequent military victory in what is now Bangladesh.'' Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw passed away at the Military Hospital in Wilington, Tamil Nadu, in the early hours of the day.

''The people and the Government of India express their deepest admiration and their profound gratitude for his inspiring leadership as Chief of the Army Staff,'' the condolence message read.

The Prime Minister said the Field Marshal had inspired several generations of Indian soldiers and officers over the past half a century.

''I am sure, his legacy will continue to live with us for years to come,'' he added.

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