15th March 2025 07:16:46 Hours
Major General Lanka Amarapala RWP RSP ndc psc, the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army and Colonel Commandant of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers, paid an official visit to the 9 Field Engineer Regiment, Kilinochchi on Wednesday, 12th March 2025.
Upon his arrival, the Colonel Commandant was warmly welcomed by Lieutenant Colonel B D J Rangajeewa USP psc SLE, the Commanding Officer, and was accorded a Ceremonial Guard Turnout in his honour.
During his visit, Major General Lanka Amarapala addressed the troops, emphasizing key values essential for both personal and national progress. He underscored the importance of discipline in upholding the professionalism of the Sri Lanka Army, reinforcing that soldiers embody the strength and integrity of the military. He encouraged troops to endure hardships with resilience, highlighting that overcoming challenges is crucial for future success. Additionally, he stressed the necessity of maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet to ensure peak performance and physical readiness.
The Colonel Commandant also reiterated the importance of adhering to ethical conduct and avoiding illegal activities, emphasizing that maintaining high moral standards is vital to safeguarding national security and the Army’s reputation. Furthermore, he urged soldiers to lead by example in supporting the national ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative by promoting environmental sustainability through both internal and external efforts, inspiring civilians to follow their lead. Drawing from his extensive experience as both a ground commander and a senior officer in the Army, he shared valuable insights with the troops.
Following his address, the Colonel Commandant engaged in an interactive session with all ranks, during which a formal tea was hosted by the regiment.
To commemorate the occasion, Major General Lanka Amarapala planted an “Iron Wood” sapling on the camp premises, followed by a group photograph to mark the visit. During his visit, the Commanding Officer briefed the Colonel Commandant on the current status of the regiment, including its roles and responsibilities, operational strength, and future plans as an affiliated battalion of the 1 Corps and a unit under the command of the Field Engineer Brigade.
Concluding his visit, the Colonel Commandant penned his remarks in the Visitors’ Book at the Officers’ Mess of the 9 Field Engineer Regiment. The visit was graced by the Commander of the Field Engineer Brigade, Brigadier H K P Karunathilaka RSP, and the Centre Commandant, Brigadier F Joseph USP
