23rd October 2021 10:00:28 Hours
The ‘Strikers’ Bay’, a newly-erected building for rest and recreation of Army personnel serving the 53 Division HQ at Inamaluwa, Dambulla under the recently-raised 1 Corps (Reserve Strike Force) HQ at Kilinochchi was inaugurated this afternoon (21) by General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army gracing as the Chief Guest.
The visiting Commander after a drive-past Guard Turnout was welcomed jointly by Major General Harendra Ranasinghe, Commander, 1 Corps and Major General Nishantha Manage, General Officer Commanding, 53 Division.
General Nishantha Manage, GOC, 53 Division delivering a few welcome remarks reminded that the incumbent Commander of the Army had the privilege of serving as the 22nd GOC many years back. He also said that this new building will remain open to members of the Army families en route to Polonnaruwa or Anuradhapura for a sojourn.
Afterwards, the day’s chief guest unveiled a plaque and warmed the new ‘Strikers’ Bay’ where Army personnel have freedom to relax and rest during their off duty hours, enjoying the scenic beauty of the ‘Keenagahawewa’, adjacent to the Habarana forest reserve and reading books and periodicals. After General Shavendra Silva had a close look at the new location, he left a few compliments in the 53 Division’s Visitors’ Book.
Major General Nishantha Manage awarded a memento to the visiting Army Chief towards the end of the brief arrangement before all of them sat for a group photo.
