AS the Sri Lanka Army’ 19th Commander, I am very pleased and delighted to address you at a time the Army, composed of brave War Heroes celebrates its 60th Anniversary with pride and dignity after evicting LTTE terrorism and bringing freedom to the motherland which brought surprise to the entire world.
Had our War Heroes with the support of other Armed Forces failed to destroy Prabhakaran, it is needless to say the country’s future would have been a critical one as you can understand.
In my capacity as former Wanni Commander giving leadership to the final humanitarian operation saw myself the dedication gallantry and unfailing courage shown by officers and other ranks alike at he battlefield. It is my prime duty to recall such memories with gratitude as Commander of the Army.
The display of Prabhakaran’s arms, ammunition and equipment at the 60th Anniversary Exhibition is not only to show the valour of as War Heroes but also to enlighten the public on the consequences the people had to suffer had the terrorism won causing a massive bloodbath.
His Excellency, the President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s fearless leadership that led to the glorious victory of the War Heroes will go into the history of the Army as well as the Sri Lankan history chronicle. It is with great respect I recall the determination and his pledge to the public which was unparalleled among any of our statesmen.
We also bow our head to Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabhaya Rajapaksa for his correct guidance as someone who has a great deal of experience in warfare and ground battles.We cannot forget the pursuance of his instructions and directives by our clever military officers while being in the background.
I also wish to recall the sustained courage extended by Chief of Defence Staff, Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Air Force, Sri Lanka Police and Civil Defence Force during our march to secure this victory.
We are not at all able to forget the sacrifices made by parents of the children who have given away their children to the Army irrespective of any personal gains for a dignified victory of this magnitude.
Mothers and fathers who offered their children for the supreme sacrifice in the battlefield are an asset to the country, I must state with gratitude.
I also recall the War Heroes who became disable and made the supreme sacrifice during operations to save the motherland and the War Heroes and the members of the civil staff in service.
I also wish speedy recovery to the injured War Heroes in hospitals on this historic occasion.
Let me also extend my gratitude to President Seva Vanitha Army Branch and its members for the numerous welfare projects they have so far launched for the benefit of families of the disable and wounded War Heroes and also those who made the supreme sacrifice. Their supportive role is appreciated with gratitude.
Sri Lanka Army’s responsibilities for the motherland would not end despite the conclusion of the war. Our prime duty at this hour is to help re-settlement of displaced people and development work. We must also work hard to create a conducive environment to work and live in peace and co-existence while effecting those responsibilities.
Let me also wish you the necessary strength and courage to conduct those responsibilities in the future with blessings of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and the Sacred Tooth Relic.
I also appreciate the courage and strength being offered by members of the War Hero families and take this opportunity to invoke blessings of the Triple Gem. Likewise, you also must be similarly determined to sustain the recognition our Army which has received worldwide recognition as the most disciplined and the cleverest one in the world.
