30th April 2024 19:45:59 Hours
Thurstan College, located in Colombo 07, warmly welcomed back one of its esteemed alumni, Major General W.H.K.S Peiris RWP RSP VSV USP ndu, the Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army, during a felicitation ceremony held at the College premises on 29 April 2024.
The Senior Officer was warmly received by the Principal, Mr. Pramudhitha Wickramasinghe, along with teachers and representatives of the Past Pupils' Association at the main entrance. Ceremonial events commenced with the offering of flowers to the Temple and War Heroes Monument on the premises, followed by a ceremonious reception where the College's Western Band honoured the day's protagonist with a guard of honour by school's cadet platoons.
The traditional oil lamp was lit, illuminating the main hall as the College song echoed through the air. An old student Mr. Aruna Shantha conducted the welcoming speech and the Principal, Mr. Pramudhitha Wickramasinghe, explained the event elaborating on the objective of the felicitation ceremony and the significance of Major General W.H.K.S Peiris RWP RSP VSV USP ndu’s appointment as an esteemed Thurstan College alumnus. Meanwhile, a school student read the profile of the senior officer to the audience.
Major General W.H.K.S Peiris RWP RSP VSV USP ndu, in his address, reminisced about his time at the College, evoking nostalgic memories intertwined with the cherished motto, ‘Thamaso Ma Jyothirgamaya’ (Lead me from Darkness to Light). He expressed gratitude for the comprehensive education provided by Thurstan College and honored the services and sacrifices of the College's War Heroes, who played a pivotal role in bringing peace to the nation.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of mementoes to the Chief Guest, followed by a vote of thanks conducted by a school cadet, and the event culminated with a group photograph capturing all distinguished participants.
Past Pupils still serving and retired in the Tri-Services, Senior Officers, Officers, retired teachers, and old pupils participated in the day's event.
