Commander Unveils Cenotaph to Honour Fallen Heroes

The first-ever War Hero monument in the Eastern Security Force Command area to honour valiant soldiers who have laid down their lives fighting the separatist terrorist in the 30 year long war was declared open by the Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya on 28th August in Minneriya amidst a gathering of many distinguished guests and family members of the War Heroes.

The monument erected in a scenic sitting in the vicinity of the historic Minneriya tank remind of all who travel to the East through Minneriya, of the sacrifices made by the heroic soldiers in defending the integrity of the motherland.

The Chief Guest, Lieutenant General Jayasuriya was warmly welcomed by the Commandant of the Infantry Training Centre Minneriya, Brigadier Asoka Amunugama on arrival and ushered him to the venue which was followed by a brief welcome speech by Brigadier Amunugama.

Thereafter, the Chief Guest was accompanied to the monument where he unveiled it, made on granite plaque with engravings stating that the monument was declared open in honour of fallen Heroes who fought bravely to eradicate ruthless terrorists.

Commander of the Army paying his respect to the fallen heroes placed a wreath of flowers at the monument and saluted as the senior officers of the tri forces and the Police followed suit, paying their floral tributes. Immediately after, beloved family members of fallen War Heroes paid their respect. They knelt down at the foot of the monument and went on shedding tears while laying bouquets of fragrant flowers. It was a solemn moment.

Lieutenant General Jayasuriya illuminated the magnificent cenotaph as a mark of respect to the War Heroes followed by the Last Post, honouring their memory in accordance with military traditions. It marked the end of the ceremony.