20th January 2024 20:20:11 Hours
The Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers (SLE) held its prestigious 'Colours Night - 2024' ceremony at the Panagoda Army Gymnasium on Friday (19 January 2024). The event, graced by Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, Commander of the Army as the Chief Guest, aimed to recognize and commend the exceptional achievements of SLE sportsmen in various sports events.
A total of 107 SLE sportsmen, representing 24 sports events, were awarded the Colours in recognition of their outstanding performances. These individuals, who excelled at International, National, Defence Services, and Inter Regiment sports and athletic events from 2020 to 2023, were honoured for bringing admiration to the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers, the Sri Lanka Army and the nation as a whole.
Major General M.K Jayawardana RSP VSV USP ndu, Colonel Commandant, SLE, along with Senior Officers, warmly welcomed Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage upon his arrival at the Panagoda Army Gymnasium. The event was further glamoured with esteemed participation of General N.U.M.M.W Senanayake (Rtd) RWP RSP VSV USP USACGSC and a large gathering of retired Senior Officers.
The Regimental song was recited, setting the stage for the day's proceedings, followed by the screening of a video documentary narrating the Regiment's proud history, expansion, progression and a brief introduction about the sportsmen set to be awarded Colours. Thereafter, Brigadier S.P.G Gamage RWP RSP USP delivered the welcome speech, outlining the objectives of the event.
Reaching the highlight of the event, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, Commander of the Army as the Chief Guest, together with Colonel Commandant and Senior Officers of SLE joined the award of Colours to the achievers.
In a symbolic gesture of support and encouragement, Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, presented a cash incentive of Rs 1 million towards the further development of sports and athletic skills among SLE personnel. The gesture was gratefully received by the Colonel Commandant, SLE, Major General M.K Jayawardana, signifying the commitment to fostering sports excellence within the Corps.
The vote of thanks, delivered by Colonel Commandant, Major General M.K Jayawardana, marked the culmination of the day's proceedings, expressing gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event. Following the formalities, all Colour Recipients, along with the Commander of the Army and distinguished guests, enjoyed a formal tea arrangement, fostering a close interaction that further strengthened the bonds within the SLE community.
