18th July 2024 20:37:09 Hours
Major General R.P.A.R.P. Rajapaksa RSP assumed duties as the new General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 54 Infantry Division during a brief ceremony on 16 July 2024 at the 54 Infantry Division Headquarters in Mannar.
Upon arrival, new GOC welcomed in a Guard Turnout in accordance with military traditions. He then paid tribute to fallen War Heroes at the Division Headquarters monument and took the salute of the Guard of Honour presented by the troops of 4th Battalion the Gajaba Regiment.
Amidst religious blessings from Buddhist, Catholic, Islam, and Hindu traditions, he signed an official document to mark the assumption of his new responsibilities. Following this, he posed for a group photograph with Senior Officers and Officers of the Division Headquarters. In his address to Officers and Other Ranks, he emphasized the importance of commitment and high standards of discipline.
To commemorate the day, the GOC planted a mango sapling and then participated in the all-ranks tea arrangement. Then the Senior Officers of the Division provided a comprehensive briefing on the role, tasks, and administrative matters pertaining to the Division to the newly appointed GOC.
Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks participated in the day’s events.
