12th November 2023 11:17:06 Hours
The Remembrance Day alias World Poppy Day (November 11) commemorative ceremony that recollects memories of world-wide fallen War Heroes, inclusive of those perished in World Wars, organized by the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association (SLESA) was held on Saturday (11) evening at the cenotaph in the Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo with the participation of the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Ranil Wickremesinghe as the Chief Guest.
A galaxy of dignitaries and war veterans, inclusive of clergy, beloved spouses, relatives of fallen War Heroes, Ministers, Admiral of the Fleet, Marshal of the Air Force, State Minister of Defence, Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the President on National Security, Secretary to Ministry of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Commander of the Army, former Tri-Service Commanders, Chief of Staff of the Navy, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, President of the SLESA, SLESA members, Tri-Service veterans and Senior Officers joined together to salute the memory of those brave ones.
This solemn ceremony, adorned with recital of the National anthem, a two-minute silence in honour of their memory, reading of the ode, religious observances and release of a book on memories of War Heroes was dignified by the presence of His Excellency the President. In addition, the Chief Guest unveiled the Centenary Celebration Plaque in the premises before the distinguished gathering joined laying floral wreaths at the cenotaph. A group photograph of the invitees brought the day’s ceremony to an end.
Poppy Day is commemorated every year across the world including all Commonwealth member states since the end of the First World War in a bid to honour the sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces who had laid their lives in the line of duty.
