SLLI's Retiring Major General Honoured at Regimental HQ

Sri Lanka Light Infantry (SLLI) troops recently bade farewell to one of its outgoing Senior Officers, Major General Mangala Wijesundara upon his retirement at the SLLI Regimental HQ in Panagoda after a long reputed service of more than 34 years.

The day's event commenced on arrival with a ceremonial Guard Turnout, followed by a Guard of Honour salute and a customary floral wreath-laying ceremony at the SLLI War Heroes' monument. A large gathering of Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks from all Units were there to bid him farewell during this arrangement, which was delayed due to the pandemic crisis in the country.

After the honours and other formalities, the day’s all rank refreshments at the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess enabled the gathering to share a few thoughts with the outgoing senior officer and pose for a couple of group photos with Officers and senior NCOs as memories. He was serving as General Officer Commanding of 66 Division at the time of his retirement.

Major General Mangala Wijesundara enlisted to the Sri Lanka Army as an Officer Cadet on 31 March 1986, and completed his initial Officer Cadet training at prestigious Sri Lanka Military Academy at Diyathalawa. At the termination of the basic training he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and subsequently posted to the Sri Lanka Light Infantry Regiment on 28 March 1987. In his extended military career over 34 years, he rendered a valuable service in various capacities in Command, Instructional and Staff appointments.

The programme culminated with a ‘Guest Night’, hosted by the RHQ. Senior Officers, Officers and their Spouses joined it in the Regimental Officers’ Mess. Finally, Major General Jayanath Jayaweera, Colonel of the Regiment in a brief address appreciated his valuable long service on the occasion. On behalf of all members of Sri Lanka Light Infantry, the Colonel of the Regiment awarded a special memento to the day's protagonist and wished him good luck for his future endeavours. Nike Sneakers | Nike Off-White