02nd April 2024 18:24:01 Hours
The Gemunu Watch (GW), a highly regarded regiment in the Army, marked its 36th anniversary on March 19th at Regimental Headquarters in Kuruwita, Rathnapura.
Commemorative programmes were started under the direction of Colonel of the Regiment and the General Officer Commanding 51 Infantry Division, Major General Wajira Welagedara RSP VSV USP ndc.
Religious observances related to multi religions were held at Sabaragamuwa Maha Saman Dewalaya, a Hindu temple, Jumma Mosque, and a Catholic church in Rathnapura. The Gemunu Watch members received blessings during ceremonies held from March 16th to 17th.
On March 18th, soldiers participated in an Inter Sections/ Branches Elle tournament to foster solidarity among them.
The following day, as patriotic music played, the Colonel of the Regiment, GW, as the Chief Guest for the military segment of the arrangements, reviewed the parade at the request of the parade commander and received the salute after the Guard Turn Out.
The Colonel of the Regiment and all ranks interacted at the tea party. Then Major General Wajira Welagedara RSP VSV USP ndc addressed officers and other ranks participated in the celebrations. The Highlanders War Heroes Commemoration Ceremony was held at the regimental centre in the evening, participation of the Colonel of the Regiment and senior officers.
On March 19th, an overnight Pirith chanting ceremony was held at the Regimental Center's Paradise Hall. Thirty-six members of the Maha Sangha were then offered alms. During this important occasion, the Maha Sangha generously bestowed blessings to the entire Highlanders family.
Major General Wajira Welagedara, Colonel of the Regiment and General Officer Commanding of 51 Infantry Division, Major General Chinthaka Rajapaksa, Commandant of the Institute of Peace Support Operations Training Sri Lanka, and Major General Janaka Wimalaratne, Commandant of the Infantry Training Centre, along with other senior officers, officers, and other ranks were present for the formalities.
