29th July 2019 20:38:59 Hours
General (Retd) Shantha Kottegoda, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence who brought honour to his Regiment, Sri Lanka Light Infantry was felicitated at his former Regiment, Sri Lanka Light Infantry (SLLI) HQ at Panagoda by inviting him there on Saturday (27). He was one among distinguished Commanders of the Army, produced by the SLLI Regiment, and now the Secretary Defence.
Major General Mahinda Mudalige, Colonel of the Regiment, SLLI welcomed him upon his arrival at the SLLI-HQ and a drive-past Guard Turnout saluted him as he entered the premises.
After a while, a special Guard of Honour, presented by Officers and Other Ranks in the Regiment honoured him adding the prominence to it.
Later, he visited the War Hero Monument there and made a floral tribute to the memory of all fallen War Heroes in a solemn moment.
During his stay, the Secretary Defence joined refreshments at the Warrant Officers' and Sergeants' Mess in the Regiment. The Secretary made it a point to talk to the NCOs during the interactive occasion and inquired into previous memories in the SLLI HQ during tenure of his office as an Officer.
Later in the evening, the Secretary, accompanied by Mrs Sonia Kottegoda graced a dinner, hosted by the Officers at the Officers' Mess. The Secretary interacted with retired and serving Officers of the Regiment who were present at the occasion and shared thoughts with them.
Mrs Krishani Mudalige Chairperson, SLLI Seva Vanitha Unit, Senior Officers, retired Senior Officers and their spouses were also present at the dinner.
During his 36 year long distinguished and prestigious military career before retirement, he had held many important appointments which culminated with him taking over the command of the Sri Lanka Army in 2004.
During his career as an Army officer, he had contributed immensely to the development of his Regiment. As Centre Commandant and then as Colonel of the Regiment and finally as the Army Commander he made his Regiment proud with his achievements. As an exceptional officer he made sweeping changes in his Regiment as the Colonel of the Regiment and later in the Army as the Commander to enhance efficiency and uplift the welfare of the personnel. He also contributed to the preparatory stages in the humanitarian operations which ultimately rid the country of the scourge of terrorism that plagued the nation for three decades.
The wealth of experience and friendly ties he has had built during his years as a successful diplomat would no doubt provide a fillip to the promotion of future defence ties with other nations. Nike Sneakers Store | Air Jordan
