MoD Felicitates Achievers in 'Commonwealth Games'

Ministry of Defence (MoD) attaching national recognition to tri-service achievers in the recent 'Commonwealth Games - 2018' lauded their victories in a special ceremony, held at MoD auditorium on Friday (27).

Hon State Minister of Defence Mr Ruwan Wijewardane as the Chief Guest for the occasion was joined by the Secretary Defence Mr Kapila Waidyaratne, PC, State Secretary of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Commander of the Navy and the Chief of Staff of the Army.

Army achievers, Sergeant J.P.C Lakmal of Commando Regiment, Lance Corporal Ishan Bandara of Corps of Engineer Services, Leading Seaman I.C.D Dissanayake of Sri Lanka Navy and Private B.D.H Gomes of Sri Lanka Air Force were awarded special mementos, certificates and cash prizes after both the Minister and the Secretary Defence spoke high of their achievements and appreciated the glory and dignity they brought home and to their organizations.

The felicitation ceremony was attended by a large gathering of MoD officials, service personnel representing different related fields of sports, coaches and a few well-wishers. Presentation of awards was joined by Hon Minister, Secretary Defence, State Secretary of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Navy Commander and Chief of Staff of the Army.

Corporal J.A.C Lakmal of the Army SC representing the Sri Lankan team cleared a total weight of 248 kg to clinch the Bronze medal in the Men’s 56kg weight category. He managed 114 kg and 134 kg in the clean and jerk event during the 21st Commonwealth Games to qualify for the finals.

Army boxer Lance Corporal Ishan Bandara of the Corps of Engineer Services (CES), won the Bronze medal in the Men’s 52 kg Boxing semi-finals at the recent 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia. Lance Corporal Bandara during the encounters in Gold Coast almost knocked out his Indian rival in a convincing manner, although he could not secure a Silver or go for a Gold.

On 4 April 2018, over 6,600 athletes and team officials from 71 nations and territories converged on the Gold Coast for an 11-day mega sporting event in the Commonwealth Games - 2018.