01st January 2025 14:56:16 Hours
Amidst the reverent echoes of military tradition, the Sri Lanka Army bade an illustrious farewell to General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil, the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), on 31 December 2024.
The departure of this distinguished Officer was marked by a ceremony befitting his towering stature. Upon his arrival, General Silva was accorded a resplendent welcome by Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP psc IG, the Commander of the Army. The proceedings commenced with the precision of military protocol as the Sri Lanka Artillery troops presented a ceremonial Guard of Honour.
Following the formalities, the Senior Officer posed for photographs, and then, addressing the assembled troops, he extended his gratitude, commending the dedication of the troops and imparted his earnest wishes for their continued success.
In a gesture emblematic of mutual respect and camaraderie, the Army Chief presented a symbolic token of appreciation to the departing CDS, which was reciprocated.
The ceremony concluded with a poignant moment as General Silva penned his reflections in the visitors' book, leaving behind a legacy full of commitment and exemplary leadership.
