Published on - 1/4/2005
Commander of the Army Lieutenant General S. H. S Kottegoda at the turn of the New Year took time off to meet a representative gathering of all ranks of the Army on Monday (03) morning at Army Headquarters after they reported for work in the New Year 2005.\r\n\r\nIn the wake of the National disaster that hit this nation, the Commander setting a practical example called off this year’s annual tea party customarily thrown by him to all ranks on the occasion and instead steps were taken to allocate that money for welfare activities of the tsunami victims. \r\n\r\nThe customary meeting saw the Commander hoisted the National flag before the ceremony got under way at Army Headquarters premises. Major General G.S.C Fonseka, Chief of Staff raised the Army flag, adding military importance to the occasion.\r\n \r\nIt then followed singing of the National anthem and the Army anthem as all present on the occasion saluted the Nation in attention while the National anthem was on.\r\n\r\nBefore he addressed the gathering, Commander observed solemnities to the occasion and requested \r\nhis men to observe a two minute silence in memory of all those who have fallen victim to the recent tsunami disaster.\r\n\r\nIn his address, Lt Gen Kottegoda expressed his condolences to the tsunami affected citizens including members of the military while praising all military personnel for their tremendous contribution, dedicated to safeguard the territorial integrity of the motherland. He also did not fail to remember memories of fallen War Heroes of the Armed Forces.\r\n\r\nLt. General Kottegoda recalling responsibilities that have been entrusted to the Army who are widely acclaimed as guardians of the nation, further underlined the importance of being vigilant and militarily strong at all times to sustain peace in the country. \r\n\r\nThe Commander wished that all Army personnel who had hitherto gone missing would safely show up again to rejoin the Army. He further invoked blessings on disable soldiers and wished that they would meet with speedy recovery and good health.\r\n\r\nBefore he wound up Lt Gen Shantha Kottegoda also extended his New Year wishes to all members of families of the service men including ex-servicemen and civil staff attached to the Sri Lanka Army.\r\n
