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Sri Lanka Army

Defender of the Nation

Secretary Defence Opens New SLAC Utility Building With Panoramic View

Sri Lanka Armoured Corps (SLAC), now on the eve of celebrating its cherished 57th birthday as one of the most senior regiments in the Army, made one more milestone in its life-span on 12.12.12 (Wednesday) when Mr Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Secretary Defence and Urban Development at the invitation of the Commander of the Army, ceremonially opened the new 3-storied building complex at the SLAC Regimental Headquarters, Rock House, Mutwal.  

SLAC Regimental Headquarters, which records its history back to the year 1955 has been experiencing revival in the past few years with a chain of new constructions and renovations, in addition to the SLAC’s continuing contribution to the promotion of welfare measures of the officers and other ranks, including those departed and members of their families.  

The new storied building with its rooftop terrace, facing rolling waves of the sea and providing a panoramic view, is comprised of the Officers’ Mess Hall, VIP suites and a spacious Banquet Hall, ideal for weddings of SLAC members, functions or any other ceremonies and gatherings.

Mr Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Chief Guest for the inaugural opening of the new building was warmly received by the Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya upon his arrival at the newly opened entrance archway where he was honoured with a Guard Turn out, presented by SLAC soldiers. Soon after it, he was conducted towards the new building in a procession, coloured by dancing troupes of the Army.

Unveiling of the inaugural plaque that speaks of the memorable occasion and illuminating the whole building with a modern and well-designed electrification system followed the Chief Guest’s inaugural entry into the new premises after cutting a symbolic ribbon.

Mr Rajapaksa afterwards took time off to visit all three floors of the building by himself in the company of Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya who is also the Colonel of the Regiment. Deeply touched by the scenic beauty of the surroundings, Mr Rajapaksa appeared extremely contended with the new facilities, made available to the SLAC officers and soldiers alike.

Before Mr Rajapaksa’s exit from the venue, the Commander presented him with a token of memory and gratitude since the Secretary’s arrival at the SLAC Regimental Headquarters would add special significance and recognition to the SLAC. Mr Rajapaksa reciprocated the gesture, offering an appreciative memento to the Colonel of the SLAC Regiment, Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya at the same occasion.

It was in the first week of December, the SLAC Regimental Headquarters began its 57th Anniversary ceremonies giving pride of place to religious ceremonies and commemoration of fallen War Heroes. Just a few days ago, the Commander of the Army opened the new entrance archway at the Regimental Headquarters and added new appearance to the entrance area of the centre. In the same vein, the SLAC Regimental Headquarters had the exceptional pride in having its new five-storied utility building complex, opened exclusively for SLAC other ranks at the premises.

Within a span of 2 - 3 years, the SLAC Regimental Headquarters turned a new leaf in its history by having several colossal building structures for the benefit of its officers and soldiers, thanks to unfailing efforts of the Commander of the Army, in his capacity as the Colonel of the Regiment.

After Ceylon Armoured Corps was raised under the distinguished leadership of General D.S. Attygalle, eternally remembered as the Father of the SLAC, the Regimental Headquarters of SLAC commenced its momentous journey with its motto ‘Whither the fates call’ after the Regiment saw its birth as the First Cavalry Regiment of the Army, 1st Reconnaissance Regiment.
 
General Rohan de S. Daluwatte (Retd), former Commander of the Army, Major General Milinda Peiris, Vice Chancellor, Kotelawala Defence University, retired SLAC senior officers, officers and a large gathering were present at the occasion.