Sri Lanka Armoured Corps (SLAC), one of the most widely acclaimed pioneering regiments in the Army, marks its 56th birth anniversary today (December 15) with a series of military and related ceremonies.
The highlight of the main ceremony at the SLAC Regimental Headquarters at Rock House, included a military salute accorded to the Colonel Commandant of the SLAC Regiment, Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya, Commander of the Army.
At the entrance to the premises, Lieutenant General Jayasuriya, gracing the ceremony as the Chief Guest inspected the Guard Turnout, presented in his honour and was afterwards ushered to the special dais to receive the Guard of Honour. He, in the company of the parade commander, observed the parade in keeping with military traditions.
The second phase of the ceremony commenced soon after observing a one-minute silence in honour of fallen SLAC War Heroes. Afterwards, Lieutenant General Jayasuriya as Colonel of the Regiment awarded trophies to those who excelled in sports, and did extremely well in other areas of SLAC administrative responsibilities in different SLAC battalions.
The next moment assumed more significance as the Commander stood up to deliver the customary address to the troops, attending the anniversary ceremony. The next item on the agenda added a sense of solemnity and reverence as next of kin of SLAC War Heroes who laid their lives in operations, were honoured, presenting special mementos.
Next, was the presentation of Colours to SLAC sportsmen by the Commander of the Army as the Chief Guest. The ceremony, at the next moment saw children of War Heroes received tributes for their excellence in sports.
Mrs Manjulika Jayasuriya, President Seva Vanitha Army Branch (SVAB) and Chairperson, SLAC Seva Vanitha Unit afterwards joined the ceremony by award of scholarships to the children of SLAC War Heroes and donation of two wheelchairs to differently able War Heroes.
Towards the latter part of the day’s anniversary programme, all those present including children joined together to have a fun-making session. Traditional games like tug of war, musical chairs, fancy dress, bun eating, etc amused the gathering as SLAC musical bands rent the air with varying oriental and western melodies.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
