Mother Regiment HQ Bids Goodbye to Retiring Major General Sisira Pilapitiya

The retiring 19th Colonel of the Regiment of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment (VIR), Major General Sisira Pilapitiya who was the Commander, Security Forces, Mullaittivu was honoured and felicitated at the VIR Regimental Centre, Boyagane, Kurunegala on Thursday (04), adhering to strict health guidelines.

Upon Colonel of the Regiment’s arrival at the VIR Regimental Centre, the Centre Commandant of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment warmly received the day's protagonist and a subsequent Guard Turnout at the entrance greeted him in accordance with military formalities. The next moment on the itinerary was solemn and dignified as the day's Chief Guest gave pride of place to the memory of all fallen Vijayabahu War Heroes and laid floral wreaths at the War Heroes Monument and PWV Monument inside the HQ compound.

The stage was set for the day’s highlight, next as the Parade Commander in his colourful attire reported the parade to the Colonel of the Regiment in accordance with military traditions. The ceremonial Guard of Honour with Regimental colours, accorded to the Colonel of the Regiment followed a customary address to the troops, in which he paid a special tribute to former Colonels of the Regiment and Ex-Archers of the VIR family for their dedicated service that made the VIR, one of the most elegant regiments in the Sri Lanka Army.

The outgoing Colonel of the Regiment then placed his signature in a formal document in his office, symbolizing the relinquishment of duties and handing over the VIR legacy to his successor, and the next Chief of the Archers, Major General Nishantha Manage, the Commander ARTRAC. Leaving an indelible gesture in the premises, Colonel of the Regiment was later on invited to pose for group photographs.

All HQ-based Officers and Other Ranks of the Regiment extended their heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing distinguished Chief of the Archers for his commitment and dedication to the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment and wished him a healthy, wealthy, peaceful and prosperous retired life.

After an illustrious service of more than 35 years, the retiring Senior Officer was awarded accolades and souvenirs before a typical street-line salute bade him goodbye. The arrangement adhered to all health safety measures stipulated by health authorities and the Army HQ.