01st April 2023 20:20:57 Hours
The Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment (VIR) commemorated its 33rd anniversary on 22 March 2023 in a colourful and vibrant ceremony, held at the VIR Regimental Centre, Boyagane in the presence of the Colonel of the Regiment, Regimental council members, Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks.
Major General Nishantha Manage, Colonel of the Regiment of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment, Director General General Staff of the Sri Lanka Army, and the Commander 1 Corps graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He was warmly received upon his arrival at the Regimental Centre and was accorded a Guard Turnout at the main entrance in accordance with military formalities before he paid floral tributes to the memory of fallen Vijayabahu War Heroes at the VIR Monument. Afterwards, the Colonel of the Regiment accepted the regimental salute at the ceremonial Guard of Honour, inclusive of Regimental Colours at the parade ground.
Marking this noteworthy day, Major General Nishantha Manage planted a sapling at the HQ premises and posed for group photographs with officers and Other Ranks of the Regiment.
Afterwards, the Colonel of the Regiment addressed all the troops at the gymnasium paying a special tribute to former Colonels of the Regiment and former archers for their dedicated service that brought the regiment to present standards. The day’s commemorative ceremony reached its conclusion with an All Rank lunch arranged at 'The Salute' Multifunctional Reception Hall.
Earlier, ‘Gilanpasa’ was offered to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic on account of the 33rd Regimental Day celebrations, giving due prominence to religious traditions. On 23 March 2023, alms were offered to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. During this spiritual observance, the fallen Vijayabahu War Heroes were remembered and transferred merits. Blessings were further bestowed upon the organization and its members, wishing them good health and success in their future endeavors during those religious segments.
