Army Chief Honoured in his Hometown at St. Joseph’s Church, Pamunugama

A grand felicitation ceremony for Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, the 25th Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, was held on 12th January 2025 at the St. Joseph’s Church Pamunugama.

The event, organised by St. Joseph’s Church, Pamunugama, was also attended by Mrs. Swendrini Rodrigo, President of the Army Seva Vanitha Unit.

The ceremony commenced with a Holy Mass and a formal felicitation programme. The Chief Guest was warmly welcomed by Auxiliary Bishop J.D. Anthony, Secretary of the Bishop Council of Sri Lanka, along with other distinguished clergy. The event began with a welcome address by the Parish Priest, Rev. Father Amil Gomez, followed by the lighting of the traditional oil lamp.

The Holy Mass was conducted by Rev. Father Rohitha Rodrigo, the Army Chief’s brother, along with other priests, blessing the Commander of the Army.

The Commander of the Army then in his address, expressed his deep gratitude for the honour bestowed upon him in his hometown. He fondly recalled his childhood in the village, highlighting the role of his family, Gonsalvez College - Pamunugama and the church in shaping his values and achievements. He also paid tribute to the fallen War Heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s peace.

Additionally, he emphasised the importance of supporting the Clean Sri Lanka Programme, underlining the significance of environmental conservation for the future.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Major General Premasiri Wickramasinghe (Retd).

The Clergy, Senior Officers of the Tri-Forces and Police, Mrs. Samitha de Silva, Principal of Gonsalvez College - Pamunugama, Government Officials, Members of the Past Pupils’ Association of Gonsalvez College, and Residents of the area participated in the event marking a day of pride and celebration.