54 INFANTRY DIVISION MARKS ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A SERIES OF COMMEMORATIVE EVENTS

The 54 Infantry Division proudly celebrated its 15th Anniversary on 10 September 2025 under the guidance of the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Major General AMC Abeykoon RWP RSP USP ndc.

In commemoration of this significant milestone, a series of religious observances were organized on 05 September 2025 to invoke blessings for the Division and its personnel. Hindu religious observances were conducted at the Thiruketheeswaram Kovil in Mannar, Islamic prayers were held at the Mannar Mosque, and Christian services were also conducted at the Mannar Church. These multi-faith activities reflected the unity and harmony within the Division and its respect for all religious traditions.

Continuing the religious program, alms were distributed on 07 September 2025 to devotees observing Sil at the historic Thanthirimale Rajamaha Viharaya. On the same day, a milk rice dansala was organized at the temple premises, offering refreshments to the visiting devotees.

As the final religious observance, a traditional Bodhi Pooja was held at the "Manu Vehera" Temple on the evening of Binara Poya, once again under the guidance of the General Officer Commanding.

In line with the anniversary celebrations, a sports tournament was conducted from 26 August to 08 September 2025, fostering teamwork, physical fitness, and camaraderie among the troops. The tournament included cricket, volleyball, and tug-of-war competitions. The 8th Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment emerged champions in the thrilling cricket finals, while the 10(V) Gemunu Watch secured the championship titles in volleyball and 4th Viyayabahu Infantry Regiment emerged champions in tug-of-war events.

The anniversary day itself, 10 September 2025, featured a grand Divisional Awards Parade conducted by the 3 Infantry Brigade Headquarters along with five subordinate units under the command of the 54 Infantry Division. The GOC addressed the troops during the parade, extending his heartfelt appreciation for their commitment and outstanding contributions toward the success of the Division’s 15th Anniversary.

To further strengthen unity and camaraderie among all ranks, an official anniversary luncheon was held on the same day, bringing together senior officers, officers, non-commissioned officers, and other ranks. The day concluded with a vibrant musical evening, marking the successful culmination of the 15th Anniversary celebrations.