10th June 2023 18:06:46 Hours
Security Forces HQ- East (SFHQ-E) troops bade farewell to the outgoing Commander, SF-E, Major General S.R.K Hettiarachchi RWP RSP VSV USP ndu psc in a formal ceremony that fit military traditions on Wednesday (07 June) at the Security Force Headquarters - East premises.
On arrival, the outgoing Commander was accorded a Guard Turnout at the entrance before he was saluted in a colourful Guard of Honour in the parade square. Moments later, he placed his signature in an official document signifying the handing over of his duties at his office.
Adding memories to the day, he was invited to pose for a few photographs with the staff before addressing All Ranks in the compound and thanked them for their generous assistance and support extended to him during his tenure. Towards the end of the troop address, he was presented with special mementoes by SFHQ - E, under-command Infantry Divisions and Forward Maintenance Area - East before he interacted with the troops during a formal All Rank tea. At the end of the day, a farewell dinner was hosted in honour of the outgoing East Commander at the Officers’ Mess.
General Officers Commanding, Brigade Commanders, Commanding Officers, Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks took part in the day’s programme.
A few days prior to marking his departure, on Monday (June 05) the outgoing Commander paid a courtesy visit to the 24 Infantry Division at Malwatta, Ampara at the invitation of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 24 Infantry Division, Major General W Chandrasiri RSP USP psc. The GOC of the 24 Infantry Division and Staff Officers warmly welcomed the outgoing Senior Officer after he was saluted in a Guard Turnout at the entrance.
Afterwards, he addressed the troops in the compound before he was invited to plant a sapling in the premises and to pose for a few group photographs. Afterwards, he participated in a lunch arranged at the Officers’ Mess. Prior to marking his departure, he penned a few complimentary notes in the visitors’ book.
