Over a Century of Patriotism: Sartaj Singh Becomes Fifth-Generation Officer in a Family Devoted to the Army

Lieutenant Sartaj Singh has carried forward a legacy of patriotism and service that spans more than 100 years. Hailing from a family that has proudly contributed soldiers to the Indian Army across generations, Sartaj has become the fifth generation to join the armed forces, upholding a tradition that remains the hallmark of his family.

A Legacy of Courage and Honor

While many read history from books, Sartaj Singh’s family has lived history. For over a century, successive generations have donned the uniform with pride, embodying the spirit of dedication and love for the nation. On 13th December 2025, Sartaj received his commission, not only marking a personal achievement but also continuing a lineage of service that has inspired countless young Indians.

Bravery Runs Through the Generations

The story of Sartaj’s family begins in 1897, when Sepoy Kirpal Singh of the 36 Sikh Regiment participated in the Afghan campaign. His great-grandfather, Subedar Ajmer Singh (2 Field Regiment), fought valiantly in the Battle of Bir Hakeim during World War II, earning the rare Order of British India for his courage.

Sartaj’s grandfather, Brigadier Harwant Singh, served heroically in the 1965 and 1971 India-Pakistan wars, while his uncle, Colonel Harvinder Pal Singh, upheld the family tradition during the Kargil conflict and Siachen operations. On his maternal side, the legacy is equally inspiring, with officers like Captain Harbhagat Singh, Captain Gurmell Singh, Colonel Gursevak Singh, and Colonel Inderjit Singh serving in multiple wars from World Wars to the 1971 conflict.

Choosing Duty, Discipline, and Patriotism

Raised in an environment steeped in military values, Sartaj Singh chose service, discipline, and patriotism as his path. After graduating from the Indian Military Academy (IMA), he joined the 20 Jat Regiment, the same unit where his father, Brigadier Upinder Pal Singh, served.

Fifth-Generation Soldier, Third-Generation Officer

Sartaj now proudly represents the fifth generation of soldiers and the third generation of commissioned officers in his family. For him, receiving the commission is more than a personal milestone; it is the continuation of a storied legacy and a responsibility to uphold the family’s values. His journey, along with his family’s century-long commitment to the Indian Army, serves as a beacon of inspiration for the youth—demonstrating that courage, pride, and humility can lead to remarkable success.

(All Photos Credit: x.com/IMA_IndianArmy)