The North based Security Forces Headquarters - Jaffna (SFHQ-J) recently marked its 15th year of national service after founding as the prime military establishment that fought against terrorism and provided security to the Jaffna peninsula and her populace.
Directed by Commander, Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe, SFHQ-J, a string of commemorative activities, including multi-religious observances were organized by officers, other ranks and the members of civil staff, serving at SFHQ-J beginning 15 June for three days.
The Security Forces Headquarters – Jaffna, after it was re-designated on 19.06.1996 to match with security developments that were taking place at that time, has been playing a prominent role to support the smooth conduct of civil affairs in the peninsula while helping the Police to restore normalcy in the region.
Religious ceremonies to bless the SFHQ-J flag commenced on 17 June. A special Bodhi Pooja at Bo Maluwa in the SFHQ-J premises and Hindu religious rites were conducted at the historical Mavadipuram Hindu Temple. Flag blessing ceremonies at St. Mary’s Catholic Church at Atchuveli and Jaffna Jumma mosque took place on 18 June.
On 19 June morning, the anniversary day, Commander, SFHQ-J and other senior officers placed bouquets of flowers at the Palaly War Hero Monument in remembrance of fallen War Heroes soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice for the sake of country’s sovereignty while serving under the Security Forces Headquarters – Jaffna. Remembrance of War Heroes followed a Guard of Honour, accorded to the SFHQ-J Commander by the 6th Regiment of Sri Lanka Artillery.
Later, Maj. Gen. Hathurusinghe accompanied by members of medical and nursing staff at the Palaly Army Base Hospital visited officers and other ranks receiving medical treatment in hospital. Having inquired about their health, Commander SFHQ-J gave each patient a gift parcel and wished them fast recovery.
As a part of the programme, all officers and other ranks of the Headquarters SF-J met at the all ranks lunch where Maj. Gen. Hathurusinghe extended his sincere gratitude to parents, children, husbands and wives of officers, other ranks and members of civilian staff serving in Jaffna for their encouragement given to beloved war heroes and ran domestic affairs in the absence of their next of kin.
A grand musical show held on 19 evening at the Headquarters premises marked the culmination of anniversary celebrations. Popular vocalists like, Damitha Abeyratne, Tony Hassan, Priyankara Perera, Priyantha Fernando, Susil Fernando, Saman de Silva and Sameera Hassan and the Army dancing troupe performed to the beats of the Army band to entertain Jaffna soldiers.
Jaffna Vicar General Rev. Fr. Dr. Justin Gnanapragasam, Government Agent Jaffna Mrs. Emelda Sukumar and some senior citizens of Jaffna also attended the function as invited distinguished guests.
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