The rank of Field Marshal is the highest military decoration attainable in an army, signifying supreme leadership and strategic prowess. This rank is rarely awarded and is reserved only for the most distinguished military leaders. In India, only two officers have been honoured with the rank of Field Marshal—Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa. Let us learn more about their contributions and why they received this prestigious title.
A Field Marshal is a five-star general rank, above a General. It is conferred as a lifetime honour rather than an operational rank. Unlike other military positions, Field Marshals do not retire and continue to hold their rank until their death.
In India, the rank of Field Marshal is the highest attainable in the Indian Army and is awarded only in exceptional cases, usually during wartime or as a ceremonial honour. To date, two individuals have been bestowed with this prestigious title:
"The enemy is not in front of you, nor behind you, but within you." - Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw
Appointed in 1973
Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw was the first Indian to be conferred the rank of Field Marshal. He was fondly called Sam Bahadur by his battalion for his unwavering leadership, frank attitude, empathy and fair treatment. His leadership played a crucial role in India’s decisive victory in the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. He was known to be forthright with his seniors and fair towards his juniors, which made him well-respected and admired by all.
Key Achievements:
“A soldier is above politics and should not believe in caste and creed.” - Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa
Appointed in 1986
Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa was the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army after independence in 1947. He was instrumental in reorganising and modernising the Indian Army in the early years of independent India.
The rank of Field Marshal is an honorary position and a ceremonial rank which is not required for daily military operations. It is awarded to exceptional leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary service to the nation. The rarity of this title means that only the most deserving individuals receive it. both Field Marshal Sam Maneckshaw and Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa played a decisive role in asserting Indian Military’s dominance not just against external threats, but also amid the recalcitrant politicos of the time.
Through their actions, they set the standards up to which the army officers measure up their actions as uniformed officers whose duty towards protecting the nation lies above all else.
India has had only two Field Marshals—Sam Manekshaw and K. M. Cariappa—both of whom played pivotal roles in shaping India’s military history. Their legacies continue to inspire generations of soldiers and citizens alike. Their leadership, vision, and service remind us that true greatness is earned through dedication, bravery, and unwavering commitment to the nation. They are remembered in the echelons of Indian military history for their patriotic fervour, bravado and being leaders who walked the talk.
Studying their life stories and biographies of their military achievement will serve as an excellent influence for students who aspire to become leaders in their chosen fields. One will also learn the importance of having a strong moral code of conduct and adhering to good ethics to succeed in life.
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