12th June 2022 15:19:10 Hours
A long-awaited and much-needed accommodation complex for 740 Other Ranks of the Army working at the Defence HQ complex at Sri Jayawardenepura, built in the nearby Talangama North area was formally vested in the troops this morning (8) during a brief ceremony, attended by the top brass in the defence management.
The well-equipped 4 storied facility, erected thanks to engineering and technical skills of the Corps of Engineer Services, Sri Lanka Engineers, other Regimental manpower, Navy and Air Force personnel was inaugurated by General Kamal Gunaratna (Retd), Secretary Defence as the Chief Guest after unveiling a plaque to that effect at the invitation of General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, Commander of the Army.
Traditional formalities, including ribbon-cutting and oil lamp lighting as the day's guests stepped in, symbolized the warming of the new complex that remained a very essential need for Other Ranks serving the Defence Ministry as well as the Army HQ. The Secretary of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Commander of the Army, together with Senior Officers and Other Ranks afterwards had a thorough look inside the facility in the company of several project managers after all guests received a comprehensive briefing on the project.
This complex consists of a welfare canteen, Seva Vanitha shop, medical inspection room and other essential facilities. The funds for the construction were allocated through the Defence HQ budget in consultation with the Treasury.
The Secretary of Defence on arrival was welcomed by the Chief of Defence Staff and the Commander of the Army. Senior Officers including Chief of Staff, Commandant, Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force and Air Force representatives attended the inauguration.
