As a young man, Abdul Razaq took on the name Maiwand in honor of his great-grandfather, Tatar Baba, who was a known tribal leader in the Battle of Maiwand, in which the British Empire was defeated for the first time in history.
From an early age, young Maiwand distinguished himself through his brilliance and talents. Following graduation from Kabul's Military Academy, he completed his higher education in Turkey. He graduated among the top cadets, for which he was singled out and recognized by the Afghan ambassador at the time in Turkey, Mr. Faiz Mohammad Khan.
An accomplished linguist, he spoke seven languages and authored several books. He was a proud Afghan, a devout muslim, and a devoted family man.
His highly successful professional life spanned the military and diplomatic services, representing his country in the latter capacity at several posts as the military attaché. At the end of his career, General Maiwand was the Commander of the Military Academy, where he also lectured.
We will remember him as a man of honor and as a loving father. May his ideals be a guide to us.
Eulogy
The article below was published in the Anis newspaper in Kabul, Afghanistan.
Funeral
Escort platoons marching during General Maiwand's funeral with military honors.
Career highlights
- Kabul, Afghanistan: Habibya high school, military academy 1910 - 1933
- Ankara and Istanbul, Turkey: Study of Communications and Academy of General staff liaison, 1934 - 1943
- Karachi, Pakistan, First Afghan Military Attaché, 1948 - 1950
- Kabul, Afghanistan: Major, Central Army Corps. Chief of Staff 8th Garrison, and Instructor, Military Academy, 1950 - 1956
- Head of top-level Military delegations abroad, 1956 and 1971
- Moscow, Russia: Military Attaché, 1956 - 1963
- Kabul, Afghanistan: Commander, Military Academy, 1965 - 1973
Excerpt from Who's who