Army Volunteer Force Turns 140 Years of Age: Anniversary Marked

The Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force (SLAVF) on 01 April 2021 marked its milestone 140th birthday giving pride of place to religious observances, military formalities and collective civil-military projets on the guidelines given by Major General Sampath Kotuwegoda, Commandant, SLAVF.

An all-night 'Pirith' chanting ceremony got to a start on Tuesday (30) evening after monks were ushered to the chanting octagon in a colourful procession, comprised of SLAVF artistes. After the casket of relics was respectfully placed by the SLAVF Commandant, an oration (Anushasana) delivered by a member of the Maha Sangha underlined the importance of the occasion.

An alms-giving (Heel Daana) for Maha Sangha on the following day (31) brought the religious segment to end at Kosgama. Similarly, the SLAVF Headquarters organized a cleaning programme at Sendesewana Elders’ Home at Hanwella and Sarvodaya Suwasetha Children’s Home at Kosgama on Tuesday (30). Inmates at both places were given alms and gift packs on account of the anniversary.

On the anniversary day (1 April), a Guard Turnout plus a Guard of Honour saluted Major General Sampath Kotuwegoda after he reviewed the parades. Troops of the Sri Lanka Artillery Regiment did the honours.

As one more important segment of the day's ceremony, the Commandant offered floral tributes to the gallant war heroes of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force who made the supreme sacrifice on behalf of the country. He also addressed SLAVF troops and urged them to perfom better in future too and preserve the dignity and image of the SLAVF and the Army. An All Rank lunch afterwards marked the end of anniversary arrangements at the SLAVF.

The Volunteer movement in the country which commenced on 01 April 1881 under the command of Lieutenant Colonel John Scott Armitage, evolved into a formidable force has engaged in the Boer War in 1899-1902, World War I and World War II and defence of the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty in a commendable manner.

A cross section of personnel representing all the battalions of the SLAVF along with Colonel Coordinating Officers at Formation Headquarters joined the staff of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force Headquarters to witness the anniversary celebrations of the SLAVF adhering to health directives issued for COVID 19 pandemic. best Running shoes brand | Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Translucent - Women Shoes - 165609C