27th October 2023 21:00:45 Hours
Troops of the 9 Field Regiment Sri Lanka Artillery (SLA) of the 233 Infantry Brigade of the 23 Infantry Division under command to the Security Force HQ East, in a humanitarian gesture of compassion and generosity, built a new house for an eight-year old child living with his grandmother sans parents in Mahawewa, Kolakanawadiya.
Nilusha Chamidu Kumara (8 years) who had lost his father when he was a toddler became further helpless when his mother unexpectedly turned disabled for the remainder of her life. However, his grandmother took charge of him and provided shelter in her shanty although place was not spacious enough.
Troops on hearing of the pathetic plight of the minor and his grandmother took the initiative of erecting a new house on the 8th birthday of the poor boy and vested it in him and the grandmother on Wednesday (25). The sponsorship for the project was extended by donors and well-wishers at the request of the troops serving the area.
Major General Prasanna Gunaratne RSP ndu psc IG, the Commander Security Forces – East as the Chief Guest graced the house – warming ceremony and handed over the keys to the child on his birthday in a simple ceremony. Divisional Secretary in Welikanda, senior army officers and civil officials were among the invitees. The family also received gift parcels including school accessories, home appliances and food items on the same occasion as incentives.
The project was done under the direction and guidance of the Commander Security Forces – East, the General Officer Commanding, 23 Infantry Division and the Brigade Commander 233 Infantry Brigade.
The Commanding Officer, 9 Field Regiment Sri Lanka Artillery, Lieutenant Colonel M.I.S Chandrakumara USP psc IG closely supervised the construction site.
