The fallen war heroes of Army, Navy, Air Force and Police, who sacrificed their lives to save the motherland from the LTTE were commemorated by presenting the Uththama Pooja Pranama Medal to their parents and wives at the Air Force base premises in Hingurakgoda on Friday.
Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa was the chief guest.
Ranaviru Sevana Authority President Padma Wettawa delivered the welcome speech. The Gazette extra ordinary published by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on July 16, 2010 was read out by Ranaviru Seva Authority Director Shirya Danansooriya which include the style and designation, description, ribbon, eligibility, awarding of the medal, forfeiture and restoration of the medal.
Defence Secretary Rajapaksa said the medal is presented to the kit and kin of the armed services personnel as a tribute for their sacrifices.
“Though there are a number of welfare schemes and projects underway for war heroes and their families, the Uththama Pooja medal was decided as an honour and appreciation of the contribution of the Ranaviru families in the humanitarian bid for permanent peace,” he said.
“This is an opportunity to show our gratitude as a nation that never forgets its brave men and women. An example well set for our future generations to follow,” the Defence Secretary said.
A total of 1,736 family members of fallen war heroes received medals at the ceremony including 1,170, 397, 169 from Polonnaruwa, Trincomalee and Batticaloa districts. (Courtesy: Defence Ministry)
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
