11th October 2023 23:11:27 Hours
The retiring Colonel of the Regiment of Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment (VIR) and Commandant, Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force (SLAVF) Major General D.M.K.D.B Pussella RWP RSP was honoured at the VIR Regimental Centre in Boyagane, Kurunegala during a formal ceremony on Monday (9 Oct).
The Centre Commandant at VIR Regimental HQ upon arrival of the outgoing Senior Officer warmly received the day's Chief Guest after he was greeted in a Guard Turnout salute. Soon after the Colonel of the Regiment laid a floral wreath at the VIR War Heroes’ monument and the PWV Monument and paid his tribute to all fallen VIR War Heroes.
Afterwards, he was invited to review the colourful parade and receive the formal Guard of Honour in accordance with military traditions. Adding memories to the day, the Colonel of the Regiment was invited to pose for a group photograph with all officers at the regimental parade ground.
Whilst addressing the troops at the regimental gymnasium, he paid a special tribute to former Colonels of the Regiment and Ex-Archers for their invaluable services that brought fame to the VIR. He also did not forget to thank all VIR Regimental HQ members during the address.
He symbolized the relinquishment of duties in his office after an All Rank tea arrangement. A street-line goodbye salute ended the day’s ceremony.
In the evening, mementoes were presented to him in appreciation of the service rendered to the Regiment and the Army during the customary dinner night, along with a special plaque to the outgoing Chairperson, VIR Seva Vanitha Branch, Mrs Himali Pussella.
Major General S.R.B Aluvihare RWP RSP ndu psc, Adjutant General of the Army, Members of the Regimental Council, Senior Officers, Officers and spouses also took part in the day’s arrangement.
