Published on - 7/1/2005
A soldier seriously wounded in the recent LTTE attack on a vehicle of the Eelam People's Democratic Party (EPDP) at CHENKALADY town while providing security escort to an EPDP provincial leader, succumbed to his injuries late night on Saturday (25) at COLOMBO National Hospital.
Corporal B.H.M. PREMATHILLEKE (37) of the 3rd Sri Lanka National Guards (3 SLNG), who fell victim to LTTE gunfire on 09 June 2005 around 10.15 a.m. while on escort duty remained placed on a life-support machine at the COLOMBO National Hospital after LTTE men fired at the vehicle killing one civilian and causing injuries to EPDP activist and the soldier in question.(Ref Situation Reports 09th & 10th June 2005)
Injured soldier was initially taken to the BATTICALOA Hospital but was airlifted to COLOMBO after his condition grew worse.
His funeral was to take place shortly with military honours.
Corporal E. H. M Premathillake was posthumously promoted to the rank of Sergeant in recognition of his dedication and commitment to his duties in the Army and defence of his motherland.
Born in Bibile on 3rd December 1969, Sergeant Premathillake studied up to GCE (O/L) at Mangalarama Maha Vidyalaya at Ampara and joined the Sri Lanka Army on 16 July 1990 as Private to receive his basic training at Chawalakade Army Training Centre before he was posted to Third Battalion, Sri Lanka Army National Guard for duties in operational areas.
During his military career, Sergeant E.H.M. Premathillake served Pulukunawa, Mahaoya, Rillumale areas in Ampara, Welikanda, Sinhapura, Nagastenna, Kurulubedda, Galkanda areas in Polonnaruwa and Mawadibembu, Sittandy, Vandaramoolai, Black Bridge, Mailanbaveli, Chenkalady areas in Batticaloa.
In recognition of his services, the Army conferred Poorna Bhumi Paddakkama (PBP), Riviresa medal and several other medals. His contribution to the unit was unique and he successfully fulfilled all responsibilities to the best of his abilities to the entire satisfaction of his superiors.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, P.G. Yasawathie (34) and three sons, Hashan Danushka,(09), Gayan Madushanka (06) and Dilshan Sandeepa (03). His funeral with full millitary honours is expected shortly.
