1st January 2026
Troops at the Army Headquarters in Sri Jayawardenepura marked the first working day of the New Year 2026 with a simple yet meaningful ceremony.
The event commenced with the arrival of Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, Commander of the Army, to the Headquarters premises as the Chief Guest. The Commander, along with Major General D.K.S.K. Dolage USP nps psc, Chief of Staff, hoisted the National Flag and the Army Flag.
The ceremony included the recital of the National Anthem and the Army Song, followed by a two-minute silence in honour of fallen war heroes. Major General K.T.P. De Silva RSP ndu psc, Adjutant General, led the reading of the State Allegiance Oath.
In his address, the Commander of the Army extended New Year 2026 greetings to all ranks and reaffirmed the Army’s role as the “Pride of the Nation and the Strength of the People”. He further paid tribute to fallen and wounded soldiers while acknowledging the contributions of former Commanders and all ranks, and emphasised the Army’s enduring responsibility to safeguard national unity, sovereignty and security through high combat readiness and professionalism.
Highlighting progress towards a soldier-centred and soldier-friendly force, he outlined advancements across moral, physical and conceptual domains, alignment with the Government’s “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative, and the Army’s exemplary role as first responders during national disasters. He called upon all ranks to uphold ethical conduct, contribute to national recovery and development, and remain committed to the Army’s vision of achieving victory through professionalism, credibility and respect, as the force moves towards a stronger, safer and more resilient Sri Lanka in the year ahead.
Later, the Army Chief received blessings from members of the clergy.
The formalities concluded with an all-ranks tea, providing an opportunity for the Commander to interact with the troops. Senior officers, officers and other ranks participated in the event.
