01st January 2022 01:25:21 Hours
The Security Force Headquarters - Mullaittivu (SFHQ-MLT) laying a red carpet welcomed the Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army and Head of the Green Agriculture Operation Center, General Shavendra Silva when he arrived there Wednesday (29) afternoon in order to make the customary address to the troops on account of the year's end festive season and share few thoughts with them for the New Year.
Major General Sanjaya Wanasinghe, Commander Security Forces-Mullaitivu warmly welcomed the visiting Army Chief and was honoured in a drive-past Guard Turnout, presented by 17 Gajaba Regiment troops at the entrance as his motorcade moved into the premises. The day's agenda afterwards made Major General Sanjaya Wanasinghe to invite the day's visiting Chief Guest to deliver his address to Mullaittivu troops.
" You all should ensure best of the best security to the people of Mullaittivu and help them in whatever the way possible since most of those people depend on the fishing industry and earn a living through hard means. Likewise, expand your community relief roles for the welfare of those deserving section of the Mullaittivu people without letting them fall into prey of anti-social elements, drug addicts, etc. I know Mullaittivu troops are enthusiastically committed to various social development roles, such as infrastructure development projects, house constructions, scholarship grants, financial donations, renovation/reconstruction of religious places, sports facilities, public services, etc which are truly praiseworthy," General Shavendra Silva said.
He also touched on prospects of promotions for all ranks in the Army during his tenure and assured more promotions for all ranks of the Army in the coming New Year, also. "Our contribution to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force and their dedicated roles as well as your commitment for erection of houses for needy families should also be praised. I also thank the Commander, Security Forces -Mullaittivu and all ranks for organizing this meet as the New Year is forthcoming. Finally, I wish to give my best wishes to all of you and loved ones for the New Year all ranks and wish you be able to perform duties in a better way as the Nation has a high regard for our armed personnel," he added.
In addition, the visiting Commander stated that the necessity of getting special training to perform their duties should be the sole aim of all the officers and other ranks. The establishment of the War College in Buttala is the best example to groom well-qualified and trained officers to the Sri Lanka Army, he added. The Commander also didn't forget to remember war heroes who served in Mullaitivu who sacrificed their lives during the humanitarian operations and extended his thoughts towards bereaved family members, too.
At the end of his troop address, the Commander Security Forces - Mullaitivu, on behalf of all ranks serving under the Security Force HQ- Mullaitivu, presented tokens of appreciation to the visiting Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army. In return, the Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army also presented mementos to the Commander Security Forces - Mullaitivu and offered his seasonal compliments. General Shavendra Silva also took time off to share a couple of views with the troops after the address. The Army Chief was invited to plant a golden apple (Beli) sapling at the Headquarters premises before General Shavendra Silva left a few complimentary remarks in the visitors’ book before he took leave of those troops after a couple of group photographs.
General Officers Commanding, Commander, Forward Maintenance Area (Mullaittivu), Brigade Commanders, Commanding Officers, Senior Officers and Officers were associated with the Commander’s itinerary in Mullaitivu.