CDS Addresses Troops during SF - East Visit

General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), addressed Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel of the Security Forces - East on 28 January at the China Bay Air Force Academy before participating in the commissioning parade of the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA), Trincomalee. The objective of his address was to remind and update the SF - East area about their role and professional conduct.

Major General M.K.U.P Gunaratne RSP ndu psc IG, the Commander, SF - East, warmly welcomed the CDS upon his arrival. Following military traditions, the troops of the Sri Lanka Air Force Academy (China Bay) ceremonially received the CDS at the Air Force Academy, Trincomalee.

The Commander, SF - East, commenced the proceedings with a brief yet comprehensive introduction about the CDS at the venue.

Addressing the troops, General Shavendra Silva extended his best wishes for the New Year and appreciated all Officers and Other Ranks who attended past missions, including the Wanni Humanitarian Operation and were present in the audience. Further, he appreciated all Officers and Other Ranks for their continued service in maintaining the hard-earned peace and harmony in the East, while assisting the general public whenever needed.

General Shavendra Silva emphasized that the professionalism of the military personnel has been duly recognized and respected by the majority of the general public. Therefore, he stressed that it is of paramount importance to ensure that all tri-forces personnel maintain the highest possible standards of professionalism, discipline, conduct, and behaviour at all times.

He further highlighted and encouraged leaders at different levels to frequently educate their subordinates about the challenges of the current operational environment and continuously guide them as and when required.

Upon completion of the troop address, a memento exchange took place between the Commander, SF - East and the Chief of Defence Staff.

During the visit, General Shavendra Silva interacted with the troops, inquiring about the needs of the Officers and Other Ranks.