Having unified the entire Sri Lanka as members of a proud Army which eradicated the 30-year long ruthless war, we are now partners of the ongoing ‘war for economic liberation’ that would take Sri Lanka to prosperity. At the time we mark the 64th anniversary as a dignified organization, let me first of all, pay my tribute to the memory of all those who departed, went missing, became disable and all officers and other ranks who have served with the utmost dedication and commitment for the betterment of the organization. As the 20th Commander of the Army, I feel privileged to have been able to issue this message on this special milestone of our organization. Although it has been the tradition to mark the Army anniversary, giving prominence to multi-religious observances, special steps were taken this year to include meritorious arrangements, giving pride of place to the offerings at ‘Sri Dalada Maligawa,’ ‘Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya’ and ‘Kataragama Kiri Vehera’ during symbolic flag blessing ceremonies since those religious sites embody Buddha’s all three most sacred relics, followed by the invocation of blessings at the historic Kataragama Devalaya on our organization. These commemorative observances came to the end with the colourful parade, being held here today.
Unflagging and invaluable contribution made through the humanitarian operations to rid our country of the three-decade long brutal terrorism, enabled all of us here to mark the 64th Army Anniversary on a grand scale with the participation of a large gathering of troops. I take this opportunity to pay our gratitude to the visionary leadership of HE the President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Secretary Defence and Urban Development, Mr Gotabaya Rajapaksa who guided tri-services through his tireless dedication and commitment.
It is with a deep sense of pride and dignity I declare here today that our exceptional sacrifices in the past 64 years for defence of the country’s territorial integrity as well as in times of natural catastrophes and other projects at every decisive phase of our country, have come in for praise from all the quarters, beginning form the first citizen of the country down the line.
In any country, tri-services as a whole in a post-war scenario, turn objects of ridicule as a general practice. Nevertheless, all of us can be humbly content for being members of an organization which has received accolades, including the first citizen of the country. We have been able to be active partners in the government’s massive economic revival as an Army. By contributing to the mammoth field of constructions and beautification projects in the sphere of urban development across the country, we are in a way, blessed to have been associated with such ventures as pioneers of the country’s forward-march.
At a time our country is progressing to be the ‘Wonder of Asia’ to be in line with HE the President’s vision, it has been observed that various interested parties and organizations are at present busy trying hard to discredit our Army at local, regional and international levels. In order to meet with these challenges, we are expected to act with patience, intelligence and presence of mind in an organized manner, let me underline.
By acting short sightedly against such forces, the image of the Army, the country as well as the yours, could be badly affected, creating different other international challenges which would pose a serious impediment to our forward-looking journey, a fact that all of you should remember. Let me repeat that it is our prime responsibility to tell the world that we are a well-disciplined Army.
Due to operational commitments in the past three decades, focus on the basic needs of our members could not be addressed adequately. But thanks to the direct intervention and supervision of the Secretary Defence in the past few years, much has been done to improve infrastructure facilities of many Army camps. I intend to go ahead further with such improvements of high standards.
Paying much attention on your different requirements, a series of welfare projects have already been introduced by HE the President, Secretary Defence and the Government, I must remember with gratitude.
Moreover, I appreciate parallel welfare projects, launched by the Ministry of Defence Seva Vanitha and Seva Vanitha Army Branches for the benefit of our members by providing houses, medical assistance, interest-free loans and assisting War Hero families by way of scholarships, etc.
Likewise, possibilities for following of subsequent professional vocational courses for those soldiers, soon retiring from the Army which would add an additional strength to your as well as the country’s economy, have been made available. Besides, refining the artistic talents of the soldier who clung to the gun all this long, musical programmes, like ‘Ranaviru Real Star’ have been introduced, showcasing multiple talents inherent in soldiers.
In the near future, our Army could be raised to be an internationally-reputed and highly professional one by introducing new technological innovations and various vocational courses. We all should strive together for that.
Sports in the Army as well as achievements in the trade have brought reputation to the Army, which we can be humbly proud of. In the future too, I believe the Army would be able to reach greater heights in sports. In the most recent Army Paralympics meet, our disable heroes showing their sports talents, proved once again that despite disability, they can still continue to keep their heads high, conquering the world.
I am of the firm view that our sportsmen in the forthcoming Paralympics sports meet-2016 will record milestone places. I assure you of all possible facilities and training in that direction and expect you to reach that achievement with vigour and commitment.
In conclusion, let me pay my tribute to the memory of all those who departed, went missing and became disable. Family members of those War Heroes as well as members of families of those serving the Army to-date are also remembered.
I recall the multitude of services of our civil staff working in different fields, doing a great job and their families are also remembered at this juncture with heartfelt gratitude.
At this moment of pride, let me tell you as the Commander of the Army that we have a moral obligation to hand over the Army to the upcoming generation as one with unparalleled and unmatched record. Therefore, I stress that you all have strength and courage to achieve that goal.
Good luck to every one !
