08th February 2025 07:27:18 Hours
Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, Commander of the Army, graced the felicitation ceremony at St. Benedict's College, Colombo, on 07th February 2025. The event was also attended by Mrs. Swendrini Rodrigo, the President of the Army Seva Vanitha Unit.
St. Benedict’s College is the Army Chief's alma mater, the institution that played a pivotal role in shaping his character and leadership journey, laying the foundation for who he is today.
Upon arrival, the Commander received a warm welcome from the Reverend Brother Director, followed by a grand reception led by the school band and an elegant 'Ves Dance' performance. He then proceeded to hoist the National Flag. The school cadets honoured the Army Chief with a ceremonial parade.
The ceremony commenced with the lighting of the oil lamp, followed by prayers. The College Head Prefect, Master Aaron Johnpillai, then addressed the gathering.
In his address, the Army Chief inspired the students, emphasising the values of discipline and perseverance in the pursuit of success. He further highlighted the importance of resilience, reminding the students that “the world will not hand you victories; you must earn them through determination and unwavering effort.”
The event also paid tribute to distinguished honourees, including Major General W.P.A.D.W Nanayakkara RSP VSP USP ndu, former Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army, Major General U.L.J.S Perera RSP USP nps psc, Military Secretary of the Sri Lanka Army, Air Vice Marshal D.B.V Weerasinghe USP, MDS, BSc (Def Stu), MIM (SL), psc, Brigadier L.W.V.S.R Wettasinghe (SLAC), Director of Administration at KDU Hospital, Brigadier S.D.N.C De Silva, Centre Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Service Corps, and Deputy Inspector General S.M.Y Seneviratne.
Further strengthening the school’s technological infrastructure, the Army Chief inaugurated the newly constructed IT laboratory. The event concluded with a formal refreshment session, bringing an end to a day of celebration.
