The symbolic presentation of permanent appointment letters to members of the civil staff in the Army occurred on Friday (23) at Army Headquarters under the auspices of Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya Commander of the Army.

A total of 3500 members of the civil staff serving in the sphere of cooking, cleaning and minor-staff duties who hitherto remained as casual labourers and employees in the Army were to accordingly receive permanency in their jobs with pension rights.

One of the oldest Regiments in the Army, Sri Lanka Artillery, more popularly known as 'Gunners' marked its historic 122nd Anniversary on Sunday (April 18) during a series of commemorative celebrations, inclusive of an all-night Pirith Chanting, Memorial Event and launch of its own 'Gunner' website (www.gunner.lk). The day's commemorative events took place at the Artillery Regimental Headquarters, Panagoda.

The day's proceedings started as the Chief Guest Lieutenant General Jayasuriya in the company of Mrs Manjulika Jayasuriya, President Seva Vanitha Army Branch arrived at the venue. Major General Rambukpotha, Colonel Commandant welcomed the Commander while Mrs Rambukpotha received the lady, Mrs Manjulika Jayasuriya.

Later on, the visiting Army Chief received honours at a Guard Turn Out accorded by soldiers of the Sri Lanka Artillery (SLA).

COMMANDER OF THE ARMY Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya, addressing a section of Officers, Non Commissioned Officers, Other Ranks and civil staff at the Army Headquarters extended his New Year wishes to all ranks of the Sri Lanka Army and their families in connection with the Sinhalese and Hindu New year.

Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya subsequent to his address visited the Military Hospital to meet injured officers and soldiers receiving treatment. Mrs. Manjulika Jayasuriya, president Seva Vanitha Army Branch, also joined the Commander during his hospital visit and distributed gift parcels among the inmates.

THE Army while embarking on an era of reconciliation, goodwill and development has also prioritized welfare of War Heroes, particularly of those who received multiple injuries in the battlefields and are confined to bed or wheelchairs, expecting lifelong care and society's affection.

The Seva Vanitha Army Branch (SVAB) under the project theme 'Brave Hearts' officially gave its kick-off Thursday (18) morning at Mount Lavinia Hotel for construction of the much-awaited 'Wellness Resort' (Abimansala) where disable and totally dependent war veterans can seek mental and physical solace, rest and recreation for the rest of their lives.