Published on - 3/1/2005
Soldiers of the Sri Lanka Army, who played a pivotal role in their efforts to rescue thousands of tsunami victims in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, continue to receive more commendations from different segments of the civil society for their tireless and risky contribution even at the risk of their own lives.
The latest addendum to the list was Mr. K.K.S.A.Perera, Assistant Divisional Secretary (ADS) for Negombo who in a letter of appreciation despatched to Commander of the Army Lt. General Shantha Kottegoda last week praised the Army by going to the extent of naming a couple of Officers in particular who came forward to rescue people in tsunami-ravaged areas.
The letter went on to say that Captain Saman De Silva attached to the Katunayake Army camp braved, risking his own life to rescue small children and residents in Kattiduwa, Mankuliya and Pitipana coastal villages under the Negombo Divisional Secretariat.
The ADS on behalf of all the citizens in Negombo further went on record extending his gratitude to the Army Commander, Lt General Shantha Kottegoda for his timely directives given to officers like Major Wimalanatha Perera, Commanding Officer at the Katunayake Army camp and Captain Saman De Silva.
The letter further stated that soldiers led by above officers not only salvaged thousands of innocent lives but also ensured protection and safety to the valuables and fishing trawlers of the affected amidst rolling killer-waves.
In the recent past, the Press in a chain of stories hailed Army's quick and meaningful actions that were put into practice immediately after the disaster, particularly in areas such as Matara, Tangalle, Galle, Modera, Kosgoda, Negombo and Jaffna.
