SLLI Anniversary Programme Selects Best Battalion Through a Competition

Sri Lanka Light Infantry (SLLI), the Army’s one of the pioneering regiments which boasts a series of unmatched records during the 30-year long war for peace, marked its 23rd Regimental Day Anniversary and the 132nd Founding Anniversary in a fitting ceremony on Tuesday (23) evening at the SLLI Regiment Headquarters at Panagoda.

The event, in addition to a Guard of Honour, accorded to SLLI’s Colonel of the Regiment Major General R.M.D Rathnayake, Chief Guest, awarded symbolic prizes to the two Best Battalions of the SLLI Regiment in the SLLI-conducted ‘Best Battalion Competition’, in appreciation of their commitment and dedication to the betterment of the regiment in the past one year.

1 SLLI Regiment was adjudged the Best Battalion in the competition and carried away the symbolic trophy while 2 SLLI in the Volunteer Force category emerged the Best Battalion in the same competition.

Soon after the Chief Guest’s delivery of a brief speech to the occasion, a colourful drill display, presented by hundreds of SLLI troops adorned the landmark anniversary celebrations of the day.

Marking the commencement of the day’s programme, SLLI troops staged a smart parade and saluted the Chief Guest on the occasion. Major General R.M.D Rathnayake, Chief Guest on arrival at the venue was received by SLLI Centre Commandant and other senior officers.

SLLI took root as a full-fledged regiment in 1989 but its history as Ceylon Light Infantry dates back to late 1880s.

Tuesday’s anniversary event culminated with a fellowship dinner at the SLLI Regiment Headquarters. Past Commanders, retired Senior Officers and a large gathering participated in the ceremony.