Today marks the 71st birthday of Sheikh Jamal, the second son of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Born on April 28, 1954, in the Tungipara village of Gopalganj district, Sheikh Jamal's life was one of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice.

Educated at Dhaka Residential Model College and Dhaka College, Sheikh Jamal was not only a scholar but also a lover of culture and sports. His passion for his country was evident even in his youth.

During the Great War of Liberation in 1971, Sheikh Jamal, like many others in his family, faced house arrest. However, he managed to escape and joined the frontline of the liberation struggle. Crossing into India, he underwent training and joined Mujib's army, the Bangladesh Liberation Forces (BLF), participating in pivotal battles in sector nine of the liberation war.

Sheikh Jamal's commitment to his country led him to pursue a career in the military. He became a commissioned officer of the first batch of the Long Course of the Bangladesh Army. His dedication and professionalism earned him respect among his peers and subordinates.

In 1974, Sheikh Jamal attended a training camp at the Military Academy of Yugoslavia, followed by training at the Sandhurst Academy in Britain. Upon his return, he served as a second lieutenant in the Second East Bengal Regiment in Dhaka Cantonment. Known for his hands-on approach, he actively participated in training sessions, tactical classes, and even trained the battalion's boxing team members.

Tragically, Sheikh Jamal's promising life was cut short on August 15, 1975, when he, along with other family members, fell victim to an assassin's bullet. His untimely death marked a dark chapter in Bangladesh's history but served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by brave individuals like Sheikh Jamal for the freedom and sovereignty of their nation.

As Bangladesh commemorates Sheikh Jamal's birthday, his legacy as a patriot and a martyr continues to inspire generations, reminding them of the importance of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the country's ideals.