Remainder of VIR War Heroes Recognized in Gallantry Medal Ceremony

One more segment of Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment (VIR) War Heroes who selflessly fought for the unitary status of the country were recognized awarding Rana Wickrama Padakkama (RWP) and Rana Sura Padakkama (RSP) gallantry medals during a special ceremony held at the VIR Regimental Headquarters at Boyagane, Kurunegala on Monday (21).

Major General Ajith Kariyakarawana, Colonel of the Regiment, VIR presided the ceremony where 1120 VIR War Heroes were recognized.

Afterwards, recital of the VIR Regimental Song and observance of a two-minute silence in memory of all fallen War Heroes set off the day’s proceedings.

During the investiture ceremony, a total of 1120 VIR war veterans out of 1207 War Heroes from various units were awarded Rana Wickrama Padakkama (RWP) and Rana Sura Padakkama (RSP) gallantry medals in recognition of their acts of bravery, dedication and commitment to end the plague of terrorism and usher in lasting peace to the country before May 2009.

At first, Rana Wickrama Padakkama (RWP) was awarded to military officers and other ranks during the ceremony. Rana Wickrama Padakkama (Combat Gallantry) medal and bar are presented to Sri Lankan military officers and other ranks as a reward for individual or allied acts of heroism in facing the enemy and performance of duties on their own accord.

It is stipulated that the decoration shall be granted to all ranks of tri forces of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka for individual or associated acts of bravery in the face of the enemy and performed voluntarily for those who are recommended by the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army.

Then, award of the Rana Sura Padakkama (RSP) started and this combat excellence medal is presented to members of all ranks of the Military of Sri Lanka for individual or associated acts of heroism in facing the enemy and for those who performed on their own accord.

The ceremony came to an end with the formal address of Major General Ajith Kariyakarawana, Colonel of the Regiment, VIR before the patriotic song ‘Ratnadeepa Janma Bhoomi’ was played.

Senior military officers, gallantry medal recipients, family members of fallen War Heroes and other Army personnel were present at the occasion.