31st January 2025 20:21:49 Hours
The 11th Contingent of the Sri Lanka Army Medical Corps (SLAMC), set to operate the Level - 2 SRIMED Hospital under the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), received a ceremonial send-off at the SLAMC Regimental Headquarters, Werahera, on 31st January 2025.
The Contingent presented a ceremonial salute to Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, Commander of the Army, before their departure. Major General D.K.S.K Dolage USP nps psc, Commander, Security Forces (Central) and Colonel Commandant, SLAMC, welcomed the Army Chief, who was honoured with a Guard Turnout at the entrance before reviewing the parade.
During the formal proceedings, the Army Chief symbolically handed over the National Flag, UN Flag, Army Flag, and SLAMC Flag to the SRIMED-bound Contingent Commander, signifying their readiness for the mission. The 11th Contingent, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel R.M.D.B Rajapaksha USP, with Lieutenant Colonel K.D.P de A Wijesinghe as Second-in-Command, consists of 64 Army personnel, including 18 Army Officers, 02 Naval Officers and 46 Other Ranks.
Addressing the Contingent, the Army Chief offered them his well wishes and emphasized the significance of Sri Lanka’s UN peacekeeping commitment, highlighting the importance of the mission for both the country and the Sri Lanka Army. The 10th SRIMED Contingent, currently stationed in South Sudan, is expected to return home following the handover of responsibilities to the new team.
The event was attended by Major General M.G.W.W.W.M.C.B Wickramasinghe RWP RSP ndu psc, Deputy Chief of Staff and Colonel of the Gajaba Regiment along with Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks.