30th December 2023 20:13:11 Hours
Major General U.D Wijesekera RWP RSP USP rcds psc, who accomplished a notable service to the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force and the nation at large over 35 years of service was saluted in a customary ceremony before he relinquished his appointment as the 53rd Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force on 28 December 2023 upon his retirement.
In accordance with the day’s agenda, the outgoing Commandant was warmly received by the Principal Staff Officer, HQ SLAVF, Centre Commandant SLAVF and Commanding Officer- Headquarter Battalion SLAVF before a Guard Turnout honoured him on his arrival at the camp premises.
After a while, amid reverberating solemn melodies, Major General U D Wijesekera RWP RSP USP rcds psc placed a floral wreath before the ParamaWeeraVibhushana Memorial and saluted the memory of fallen war heroes.
Subsequently, he was ushered to the saluting dais by Major General Thusitha Silva KSP, the Deputy Commandant, SLAVF to receive the Guard of Honour accorded by Sri Lanka National Guard troops amidst melodies of patriotic music in the air.
Marking an indelible chapter in the proud history of the Volunteer Force, the Senior Officer placed his signature in the Visitors’ Book with thoughtful wishes and handed over his duties. Afterwards, he unveiled his portrait at his office and posed for a group photograph with the staff at the HQ SLAVF at Rendezvous Pavilion.
Addressing the troops, the outgoing Commandant extended his gratitude to all the SLAVF members who integrated with him in realizing organizational objectives during his short span of tenure. He was afterwards awarded a plaque by the Regimental Sergeant Major of the SLAVF on behalf of Other Ranks at HQ SLAVF during the tea party.
The Senior Officer aftet a while departed from the Headquarters amidst good-bye cheers of the Officers and Other Ranks who street lined on both sides of the road leading to the main gate.
