07th October 2021 15:28:52 Hours
On the eve of his retirement, Major General Hemantha Bandara, the former Commander Security Forces - Wanni and Colonel of the Regiment of the Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment Thursday (7) morning had an audience with General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army at the latter's invitation.
General Shavendra Silva during the interaction inquired into his future plans upon retirement and refreshed memories, related to past occurrences that shaped the Army in the past three-decade of his service as one of the proud soldiers, produced by the Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment (SLSR).
The Army Chief also praised him for his contribution to the growth of the organization by way of conducting programmes and incorporating them in the Army's 'Way Forward Strategy,' etc.
The outgoing Senior Officer also thanked the Commander of the Army for his wishes and the thoughtfulness while mentioning about the encouragement he received from the Army Chief in the performance of his duties. Towards the end of the interaction, General Shavendra Silva awarded a special memento to the retiree as a symbol of appreciation and commendation.
His contribution to the defeat of LTTE terrorism earned him several medals, inclusive of the Rana Wickrama Padakkama (RWP), awarded for individual acts of bravery and heroism, taken on own initiatives. He was also awarded the East Humanitarian Operation Medal and the North Humanitarian Operation Medal, North and East Humanitarian Operation Medal, etc in addition to RSP and USP medals.
Major General Hemantha Bandara, the Commanding Officer of the 6 SLSR battalion. He has also served the 1 SLSR, 9 SLSR and 12 SLSR in various command positions during the 3-decade long war against the terrorists. He was later appointed to take over Command of 522, 573, 144 and 142 Brigades over a period of 8 years.
