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Sri Lanka Army

Defender of the Nation

14th April 2016 14:58:00 Hours

Commander of the Army’s New Year Message

It is with great pleasure that I extend my best wishes to all Officers and men of the Sri Lanka Army for a happy, healthy and prosperous Sinhala and Tamil New Year.
 
Nature’s new season of spring and the dawn of the New Year, marked by the transition of the Sun from the House of Pisces to that of Aries,  bring the revival of hope and expectation to all aspects of life. This national festival which is a great encouragement to solidarity and national  prosperity reflects the remarkable bonds that exist between nature and humankind.
           
The observance of many important traditions associated with the Sinhala and Tamil New Year strengthens the supremacy of the festival, great unity and understanding between family, village and the entire Nation. As the country moves towards prosperity, the observance of these traditions auspiciously by all of us would bring blessings, embellishing friendship, unity and cohesion.
 
The New Year which evokes fresh feelings and thoughts among the young and old alike invites society to think anew, start afresh and revive relationships. It paves the way to look at our lives and that of others with renewed compassion and sincerity.

At the dawn of Sinhala and Tamil New Year, it is, with gratitude that I look back upon the past year and commend you for the high standard of performance, dedication, maturity and professionalism. Moreover, it is the prime responsibility of all members of the Army to protect our motherland, its citizenry, to assist in developing the country and to strive to make 2016 the year of achievement.

Let me pay my tribute to all the war heroes who made the supreme sacrifice, suffered injuries and are recovering from injuries as well as to the serving members of the Army for their commitment and perseverance.
 
I once again, thank all the Officers, Other Ranks and Civilian Staff for the innumerable contributions they have made in the interest of sustaining peace and security in our Motherland. In conclusion, I wish you all continued strength and wisdom in performing your duties and bringing together all Sri Lankans in the interest of a unitary nation.
 
I wish you all a Prosperous and Happy New Year.

A W J C DE SILVA RWP VSV USP ndu psc
Lieutenant General
Commander of the Army