16th March 2022 20:57:25 Hours
Major General Harendra Ranasinghe, the 1st Commander of 1 Corps relinquished his duties on Saturday (12) before his retirement from the Army during a formal military ceremony, held at its Headquarters in Kilinochchi.
The outgoing Commander was invited to review the Guard Turnout, presented at the entrance to the 1 Corps Headquarters on arrival. A few minutes later, a Guard of Honour, presented by 5 Gemunu Watch troops honoured him saluting at the parade ground.
Thereafter, the outgoing symbolized his relinquishment by placing his signature and leaving compliments in the Visitors’ Book. Afterwards, leaving memories as the Commander 1 Corps. He also posed for a few group photographs with the General Officers Commanding, Brigade Commanders, Commanding Officers and Officers under command to the 1 Corps HQ, together with a representative gathering of Other Ranks.
Subsequently, the retiring 1 Corps Commander addressed the troops at the ‘Nelumpiyasa’ Multifunctional Hall and shared memories of his 35 years of long service and expressed deep gratitude to the troops who supported him throughout the service. He also urged them to continue their commitment in the same spirit whilst safeguarding the reputation of the organization.
The Brigadier General Staff of the 1 Corps HQ presented a memento and appreciated the retiring Major General Harendra Ranasinghe’s service to the Army and also to the establishment of the 1 Corps HQ.
All General Officers Commanding, Brigade Commanders, Commanding Officers and Other Ranks were there to extend best wishes on the retiring Senior Officer. Finally, the Commander 1 Corps attended an all-rank tea and took leave of them. The arrangement followed all health guidelines.
