GLITTERING AND DIGNIFIED PARADE ADDED MORE COLOURS TO THE 73RD ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE CORPS OF SRI LANKA ENGINEERS

In a display of military tradition and pride, the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers celebrated its 73rd Anniversary with a splendid ceremonial parade on Saturday, 9th November 2024. The highlight of the anniversary festivities, the parade, was held at the Regimental Parade Square, adding grandeur and patriotic fervor to this significant milestone. Major General Lanka Amarapala RWP RSP ndc psc, Commander Security Forces (West) and Colonel Commandant of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, bringing honor to the event.

Upon the arrival of Major General Lanka Amarapala to the Regimental Centre Main Entrance, warmly welcomed by Colonel Mangala Balasuriya RSP, Overlooking Centre Commandant. As per tradition, the Colonel Commandant was accorded a formal Guard Turnout, embodying the discipline and precision the Corps is renowned for. The ceremonial reception followed with the Colonel Commandant paying tribute to fallen heroes, laying a wreath at the Fallen War Heroes Monument, in a solemn moment that underscored the Corps' dedication to honor the sacrifices made for the country.

The ceremonial parade followed, with troops of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers executing a meticulously organized event, reflective of the strength, unity, and expertise inherent to the Corps. The ceremonial parade, the centrepiece of the anniversary celebration, was meticulously orchestrated and commanded by Lieutenant Colonel M A K R K Abeywickramasinghe RWP RSP psc SLE, consisted of 18 Officers and 167 Other Ranks. After the Colonel Commandant reviewed the parade, elegantly-dressed troops saluted in conformity with military traditions.

Major General Lanka Amarapala addressed the parade, extending his appreciation to the troops and recognizing their contributions to the Corps and the nation. He emphasized the importance of resilience, adaptability, and dedication as the Corps faces the challenges of the modern world. His speech inspired a renewed sense of purpose and pride among the troops, reinforcing the spirit that has sustained the Corps for decades.

The 73rd anniversary parade concluded on a high note, and the event was attended by Major General D K S K Dolage USP psc, the Commandant Defence Services Command and Staff College and Colonel Commandant of Sri Lanka Army Medical Corps, Major General K A N Rasika Kumara ndc psc, Director General Media and Psychological Operations and Colonel Commandant of Corps of Engineer Services, Major General D B L Colonnel USP, Major General T C Peiris RSP USP, the Chief Field Engineer of the Sri Lanka Army, Brigadier S P G Gamage RWP RSP USP, General Officer Commanding of Engineer Division, Council Members, Senior Officers, Officers, Regimental Sergeant Majors and Other Ranks of the Corps. The parade and accompanying ceremonies were a powerful tribute to the Corps' proud legacy, embodying the values of duty, honor and service.