New Delhi, June 27 (IANS) President Pratibha Patil and Vice President Hamid Ansari Friday mourned the death of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, former Indian Army chief who crafted India’s decisive victory in the 1971 war with Pakistan. “Field Marshal Manekshaw was a legendary soldier who, as the commander of our Army, played a critical role at a very important and crucial juncture in our history during the 1971 war,” Patil, the supreme commander of the armed forces, said in her condolence message.

“Throughout his long and distinguished career, Field Marshal Manekshaw always led by example and, therefore, was able to inspire his men and get the best out of them.

“In his passing away, the nation has lost a true patriot who shall always remain an inspiration for our Armed Forces as well as for the nation,” Patil said in her message from Indore in Madhya Pradesh where she is currently on a visit.

Ansari, in his message, said the leadership and courage of Manekshaw were evident during the 1971 war.

“As a soldier and field marshal, he will always remain an inspirational figure for the defence forces and every citizen. His services to the country will always be remembered,” Ansari added.