Commander Speaks to Reserve Forces in 53 & 58 Divisions

Troops serving the 53 Division and the 58 Division under command to the 1 Corps HQ this morning (2) listened to the new Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage at the Army Headquarters, Sri Jayawardhanapura where he enlightened the formidable reserve force on current developments in society and the role and tasks of Army personnel at this critical juncture.

The Army Commander during his comprehensive address touched on the role and tasks of the Army in general, its present security engagements, maintenance of relations with the Police and other supportive elements, civil-military co-operation, decision-making, practical approaches and possibilities for resolution thru dialogue, assistance to the general public, affected badly due to the current tension and crisis, maintenance of goodwill and restraint, perception of public pulses and feelings, maintenance of Army dignity and discipline, adoption of diplomacy at all levels, etc.

Those 1 Corps troops well-attuned to contemporary security dynamics as a formidable reserve to respond to current and future threats have been trained to match with the "Sri Lanka Army Way Forward Strategy 2020-2025" in order to organize, equip, train and maintain a highly adaptable reserve force ready to undertake contingency tasks as a force of deterrence for the defence of the nation.

Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage speaking to them underlined the need to maintain professional standards of the Army and its proud dignity even in the face of trying circumstances. Our commitment for defence and well-being of the public is always our priority and we are under obligation to protect the State, its Constitution and the people as has been our practice throughout. Everyone should maintain patience, politeness, restraint and best behavioural practices in spite of tension, commotion or any sort of challenges, he told the gathering.

Several Senior Officer including Major General Crishantha Gnanarathne, Commander 1 Corps, Major General Udaya Herath, General Officer Commander 53 Division, Brigadier Vipula Ihalage, General Officer Commander 58 Division and Senior Officers were associated with the arrangement. The Army Chief on arrival was received by Commander 1 Corps at the location.