21st September 2024 11:54:07 Hours
On 18 September 2024, the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment ceremonially welcomed its 23rd Colonel of the Regiment, Major General Nalin Bandaranayake USP, at the Regimental Centre in Boyagane, Kurunegala. The event was attended by Regimental Council Members, a few retired batchmates, senior officers, commanding officers, several other officers, regimental sergeant majors, all other ranks, and civil servants.
Upon arrival, the newly appointed Colonel of the Regiment was warmly welcomed by the Regimental Centre Commandant at the main entrance, where he was honored with a guard turnout. In a solemn gesture of respect, Major General Nalin Bandaranayake laid wreaths at the fallen war heroes' monument and the PWV recipients' monument, paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice to safeguard the motherland during the three-decade-long war against terrorism. Following this, he was accorded a Guard of Honour at the parade square.
Giving prominence to the Buddhist traditions, Major General Nalin Bandaranayake officially assumed his new duties by signing an official document amidst the chanting of pirith, signifying the acceptance of his responsibilities. He then planted a tree sapling at the Regimental Centre, leaving a lasting mark on the premises, and posed for group photographs. The day's events concluded with the new Colonel of the Regiment addressing the troops at the Gymnasium, followed by an All-Rank Tea at "The Salute" multifunctional hall.
Major General Nalin Bandaranayake USP enlisted in the Sri Lanka Army on 7 September 1990 and underwent basic military training at the Pakistan Military Academy. After being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, he was posted to the 7th Battalion of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment. Since then, he has held various command, staff, and instructor appointments and currently serves as the General Officer Commanding of the 14 Infantry Division.