02nd November 2023 21:00:42 Hours
The Sri Lanka Light Infantry (SLLI) Regiment, the oldest Regiment of the Army whose motto, ‘I serve’ continues unabated turned 142 years old on Monday (23 October).
The 142nd SLLI Anniversary commemorations at the SLLI Regimental HQ in Panagoda got underway under the guidance of Major General S.R.K Hettiarachchi RWP RSP VSV USP ndu psc, Colonel of the Regiment of SLLI and Commander Security Forces - Jaffna and Brigadier M.P.S.P Kulasekara WWV RWP RSP, Centre Commandant, SLLI with the participation of a distinguished of Senior Officers, relatives of fallen War Heroes and serving Officers and Other Ranks.
On the Anniversary day (23 October), Colonel of the Regiment, SLLI on arrival at the location was saluted in the Guard Turnout before he was ushered to receive the salute in the colourful Guard of Honour in the parade square. Several photographs added memories to the occasion.
Afterwards, the day’s Chief Guest addressed the troops and awarded trophies to the winners in the Inter-Unit Drill Competition and Annual Administration Inspection. Later, he interacted with the troops during an All-Rank lunch.
As part of the main highlights on Tuesday (28 October), the memory of 3744 SLLI War Heroes who perished while fighting for defence of the country since the SLLI was raised in 1881 was refreshed offering floral wreaths at the ‘Abhiman Mudunatha’ War Heroes’ monument in the Regimental HQ, Panagoda.
The Colonel of the Regiment of SLLI, together with Major General T.J Kodithuwakku (Rtd) RWP RSP ndu, former Chief of Staff and Colonel of the Regiment, SLLI, Retired and Serving Senior Officers and Officers, Other Ranks and families of fallen war heroes were present during the ceremony and all of them paid floral tributes honouring the memory of fallen War Heroes.
On the same day evening, an all-night ‘Pirith’ chanting ceremony invoked blessings on the Regiment and an alms-giving the following morning brought the commemorative events to an end.
