The Colours of any Regiment are considered to be an important part of the most magnificent and dignified Regimental Heritage. It symbolizes undaunted prowess, bravery and heroism and is the epitome and embodiment of glory, glamour and splendour.
Regimental Colours are a development of the Banners of Medieval Nobility, which in turn trace their origin back through the ensigns and standards of the Roman, Greeks, Egyptians and Sinhalese. The custom of carrying Colours has been practiced since the days of early Man, who hoisted the Family symbol on a pole and held it high in battle, for the dual purpose of indicating his position and acting as a rallying point should the need arise. The Greeks did the same with a piece of armour affixed to a spear and some Romans held high an Eagle.
From the time men fought in organized bodies and soldiers fought opposing forces, they have always had a symbol or a flag visible over the field of battle to indicate the location of their leaders and to signify the advance or retreat of their columns. The sight of these symbols reminded the soldiers of their past deeds in battle, stimulated resolution and courage, nurtured ‘Espirit-de-Corps’ and rallied, enthused and motivated them towards even greater deeds of valour against all odds, to achieve success and victory.
The Badge of a tribal chief could be seen at great distances. It is in the use of those badges for purposes of war that the origin of Regimental Colours can be placed. It is not difficult to comprehend that the badge or totem of a persistently successful family or tribe would acquire an aura of veneration. Medieval chivalry followed the same gist, when armorial signs were placed on their banners so that these could be seen well above the melee.
The symbolic aspect of the subject is concisely summed up by Hulme, in his book, “The Flags of the World”.
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“So soon as man passes from the lowest stage of barbarism the necessity for some special sign distinguishing man from man, [i.e. individual desire] tribe from tribe, nation from nation, makes itself felt; and this prime necessity once met, around the chosen symbol, stirring memories quickly gather that endear it, and make it the emblem of Power and Dignity of those by whom it is borne”.
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It is therefore easy to appreciate that regimental ‘espirit-de-corps’ grew up naturally round the Regimental Colours of our modern armies.
The Roman flags and banners reposed in their temples after the battles were over. The Christian churches in England sometimes lent their religious banners to be taken into the field of battle. This link between the military and the ecclesiastics – between the arts of war and the blessings of religion – may be attributed to the origin of the Ceremonies of Consecration of Colours that are traditionally performed before Colours are presented, to invoke divine blessings for protection, success and victory. Such blessings make Colours sacrosanct and therefore venerated.
In Sri Lanka too, history records that in the times of the Sinhala Kings, they carried their Banners after the performances of religious rites.
The use of banners or flags were not unknown during the Kingship in Sri Lanka. King Dutugemunu, his predecessors as well as his family bore the Royal Lion Banner displayed with emblems of the Sun and Moon which signify the eternity of the royal lineage.
Such systems were extinguished at the end of Kingship in Sri Lanka when it became a Colony of the British Empire in 1815. The British system of the award of Colours which had developed into the grant of two Colours to a Regiment in the 18th Century manifested itself in the British Colony of Ceylon in the 20th Century. In 1922 the Volunteers of the Ceylon Light Infantry were presented with the Sovereign’s Colour and a Regimental Colour.
When the British Army was trying to accept a system of regimentation at the beginning of the 17th Century each Company was allotted a Colour, a custom which prevailed for about one hundred years thereafter.
Military Colours developed from these early beginnings. The first known regulation for Colours was published in 1747 by R. Napier, Adjutant General.
In England in 1751 infantry regiments were allowed two Colours – a King’s Colour and a Regimental Colour. These Colours were presented by the Sovereign or Head of State in appreciation of a Regiment’s or Battalion’s record of commendable service and loyalty. The privilege of carrying the Sovereign’s Colour or President’s Colour and the Regimental Colour presented by the Sovereign or the President is thus regarded by the Regiment or Battalion as a signal mark of distinction and honour. Such Colours represent the Sovereign’s or Head of State’s patronage of the Regiment or Unit; they represent its traditions and honours; they instill in its members a sense of pride in the possession of Colours and motivate resolution, courage and high ideals.
Colours have been carried in the fields of battle until comparatively recent times. History records that many Generals have steadied their men in the confusion of battle and spurred them to victory by displaying the Regimental Colours. The practice of carrying Colours into battle since 1751 continued until the beginning of 1881 during the Boer War in South Africa when this custom was discontinued because of the altered forms of attack and increased range of musketry which brought risks to and loss of valuable life.
Now that Colours are no longer carried in action, it will not be possible for them to become battle-scarred as formally. Nevertheless, each successor of a set of new Colours, like the heir to a great family, inherits the traditions, the glory, honour and veneration acquired by its predecessors.
Colours now repose usually in their respective Battalion Headquarters. They are paraded at ceremonials and trooped on occasions before their Officers and Men. They remain venerated and are always the symbol of the Battalion’s traditions, honour, and service; the symbol of patronage by the Head of State; the symbol of its history; its corporate life; its resolution and courage.
On 22nd May 1972, Ceylon proclaimed itself The Republic of Sri Lanka. In 1979, the first Commanding Officer of the Ruhunu Regiment which was disbanded in 1956, who was also the first Commanding Officer of the 3rd Volunteer Battalion of the Gemunu Watch, Colonel C.A. Dharmapala and the incumbent Commanding Officer of 3 [V] GW, Lieut. Colonel B.A. Perera, sought the grant of the President’s and Battalion Colours for 3 [V] GW. The request was granted by the President and the ceremonial Presentation of Colours for 3 [V] GW was scheduled to take place. Simultaneously, on representations being made to the President by the CO of 1GW, Lieut. Colonel. P. Pakshaweera and the CO of 2 [V] GW, Lieut. Colonel L.D.E. Sugathadasa it was decided to grant Colours to all three Battalions of the Gemunu Watch. Colonel Pakshaweera, with his experience in the UK revealed the fact that in the British Army the military custom prevalent was to grant Colours to all Battalions of the same Regiment when the Sovereign’s Colour and the Regimental Colours are awarded to a Battalion. To distinguish individual Battalions, appropriate numerals were placed on the Colours to as a form of identification.
Consequently, the Ceremonial Presentation of Colours to the 1st Regular Battalion, and the 2nd and 3rd Volunteer Battalions of the Gemunu Watch by H E the President was scheduled to take place at the Galle Esplanade on 15th August 1980. Invitees included, representatives of the Army, senior Public Servants and the General Public.
Taking into consideration that Sri Lankans are of multi-religious Faiths, the Consecration of the Colours was performed by religious dignitaries of the Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and Christian denominations.
The 1st Regular Battalion of the Gemunu Watch was commanded by Lieut. Colonel P. Pakshaweera, the 2nd Volunteer Battalion by Lieut. Colonel L.D.E. Sugathadasa and the 3rd Volunteer Battalion by Lieut. Colonel B.A. Perera. After the Presentation of Colours, the first Executive President of Sri Lanka, His Excellency J.R. Jayawardena, addressing Troops on Parade stated:
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“ I am very pleased as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Services to present the President’s Colour and Regimental Colours to the 1st Battalion of the Gemunu Watch and the 2nd and 3rd Volunteer Battalions of the Gemunu Watch. Colours are presented to Regiments in recognition of their devoted service to the Country and the State and as a symbol of their “rallying” together and building up “espirit-de-corps”.
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Further, H E the President said that the three Battalions of the Gemunu Watch raised on 7th December 1962, 1st October 1964 and 1st September 1965, respectively, are young in years but inherit traditions of over two thousand years.
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“ I have no doubt that the Officers and Men of these Regiments will continue to render loyal and efficient service to the Country in the future, whilst perpetuating the fame of King Dutugemunu from whom the Regiment derives its name. I charge you to preserve and protect these Colours for all time”.
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After the presentation the new Colours were trooped, as is customary, by all three Battalions of the Gemunu Watch and they then marched past H.E. The President in Slow and Quick time.
THE PRESIDENT’S COLOUR
The President’s Colour is identical to the National Flag of Sri Lanka. In the centre of the two vertical strips of Green and Orange it bears the Armorial Crest, the Presidential Insignia of Sri Lanka; symbolizing the Presidential patronage of the Gemunu Watch. Below the Presidential Insignia the relevant numeral of the Battalion is denoted. Under the Unit numeral the Regimental nomenclature in Sinhala, “ Gemunu Hewa Balakaya” which is derived from the term used by the great Sri Lankan King, Dutugemunu.
THE REGIMENTAL COLOURS
A blazon of the Regimental Colour of the Gemunu Watch is a border of Blue with a Liyawela designed in Gold entwined, Cross Swords and a Conch shell [Valampuri] each placed at the four corners of the border; held by the border a field of Gold with ten Spears in Emerald Green and a field of Red. [ The 1st and 2nd Battalions now use Blue instead of Emerald Green]. In the centre of the Regimental Insignia is the resplendent Peacock with its beautiful feathers spread on a Red background guarded by the emblem of the Sun and Moon, with the Motto of the Gemunu Watch featured below the Insignia. At each of the four corners of the Colours are depicted Velayudhas [Spear Heads] Below the Regimental Crest is a numeral denoting the Battalion and the Regimental designation.
SIGNIFICANCE
THE LIYAWELA: The design of Liyawela [which only appears in the Regimental Colour of the 3rd Battalion] was used in ancient flags and banners. It is a reproduction of Sinhala art. It runs on the border of the Colour in Gold and is used to symbolize Unity, Growth, Prosperity and Perpetual Continuity.
THE CROSS-SWORDS AND THE CONCH SHELL: The cross-swords in the four corners of the Colour depicts all round protection the Regiment offers in service to the Country. The Conch Shell [Valampuri] is symbolic of victory in all assignments. The sounding of the Conch Shell by Sinhala Armies was a way of indicating to troops that they had been victorious. The Velayudha: This was an ancient weapon used by Sinhala Warriors especially during the reign of King Dutugemunu. It is believed that the Velayudha or Spear was also used by King Mahasena, the Great Grandfather of King Dutugemunu, now venerated as the Guardian Deity of Ruhuna, God Kataragama. The four Velayudhas positioned at the four corners is symbolic of all round protection; meaning that the Country is totally guarded from every direction. These Velayudha point inwards, towards the Regimental Insignia; while symbolizing the Infantry Arm, it also implies that the Regiment pledges to protect, defend and secure the entire Country from every direction. The Ten Spears: The Ten Spears in emerald Green on a Gold background in the Regimental Colours of 3 [V] GW and in Blue on a Gold background in the other two Battalions, represent the Ten Generals of King Dutugemunu’s Army who were instrumental in the victory of Dutugemunu over King Elara. The Dasa Maha Yodhyas[Ten Great Warriors] were experts in various Arts of War practiced in ancient military manoeuvres. These ten Generals were, Nandimitra, Suranimala, Mahasena, Gotaimbara, Theraputtabhya, Bharana, Velusumana, Kanchadeva, Pussadeva and Labhiya-Wasabha.
The Sun and the Moon: The depiction of the Sun and the Moon in the Regimental Colour is symbolic of eternal vigilance, whether by day or night, that the Gemunu Watch soldier is committed to perform. It was an ancient custom to include the Sun and the Moon in Military and Royal Banners. King Dutugemunu also carried it in his Royal Lion Banner signifying Eternity.
The Peacock: The Peacock is the most beautiful Bird in the World. It is Proud and Regal, and is displayed in the Centre of the Regimental Colours. This bird is of great significance. Legend has it that the bird was used as the Vehicle of God Sri Skanda [God Kataragama] the guardian Deity of Ruhuna. King Dutugemunu regarded the Peacock with utmost respect and reverence.
The Pike Heads: The gilt ornamental metal head of the Pike that holds the President’s Colour is based on the model of the ancient moonstone that compliments Sinhala Art and Culture, influenced by Buddhist Philosophy. The Pike Head is decorated with four engraved Conch Shells [Valampuri] surmounted by the Armorial Crest of the Republic of Sri Lanka.
The Pike Head that bears the Regimental Colours is embossed with four Peacocks facing the four directions. Superimposed over the Regimental Colour is the symbol of the Army and the State symbol is placed on top of the Army Crest. The base of the Pike Head is embedded with ten emerald green stones depicting the ten great Generals of King Dutugemunu.
The colours of red, white, gold, emerald green and blue have a deeper significance and meaning.
Red is the colour of Victory in Battle. It is also the colour of the Lion that adorns the Royal Lion Banner of King Dutugemunu and his Clan. Mars, the God of War and God Kataragama use Red to perpetuate victory in battle.
White symbolizes purity and innocence. It is used for absolute victory over the enemy. It also signifies victory over self, and eternal peace.
Gold is the colour of Ruhuna where King Dutugemunu raised his victorious Army, and is symbolic of a disciplined Army guided by religious principles.
Emerald Green signifies strength and combat efficiency.
Blue represents the God Vishnu and the legendary God Uttapala-Vanna of Devinuwara in Matara, the guardian Deity of the entire Island of Sinhaladweepa.
EPILOGUE
It would be most appropriate to conclude this article on the History of the Colours of the Regiment of the Gemunu Watch by quoting excerpts from the messages received in connection with the Presentation of Colours which were awarded to the three Battalions of the Gemunu Watch on 15th. August 1980 at the Galle Esplanade.
First, from the Commander of the Army, Major General J.E.D. Perera. ndc, psc, MIBM.
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“………This is a great occasion in the History of the Gemunu Watch and I have no doubt that the inspiration of being presented with Colours by the Head of State will strengthen the spirit that exists amongst all ranks of the Gemunu Watch.
GEMUNU was one of the greatest Kings of Sri Lanka. Coincidently, the ashes of this Great King were enshrined only this year and personnel of the Regiment were associated with the enshrining ceremonies. The Regiment is undoubtedly proud of the name it bears and will certainly live up to it ………”
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Secondly, from Lieut. Colonel P. Pakshweera, incumbent Commanding Officer of the 1st. Battalion of the Gemunu Watch.
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“…………..On this historic occasion I consider it my proud privilege to be in Command of the Battalion. However, it is my duty to record the loyal service and sacrifice of the past Commanding Officers, especially that of Lieut. Colonel. J.F. Halangode [Senior] the first Commanding Officer of the Battalion. The Battalion also recognizes the dedicated and loyal service of all other Officers and Men, serving or retired. It is due to their great hearted endeavours that the Regiment has been found worthy to be presented with Colours today. Let us rededicate ourselves to continue to serve with honour and to diligently follow the Battalion Motto……….”
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Next, by Major General [ then Brigadier] T.I. Weeratunge, a former Commanding Officer and the first Army Commander from the Gemunu Watch.
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“……………..The spirit of the Gemunu Watch has been inspired by the tradition and achievements of one of the greatest sons of Sri Lanka, King Dutugemunu who was renowned for his military leadership, sense of justice and fair play. The Gemunu Watch is dedicated to live up to these ideals. The Colours which the Gemunu Watch are honoured to receive today will be a constant reminder to the members of the Regiment of their duty to protect the ideals and traditions of soldiering in the cause of our Nation.
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Finally, from Colonel. B.A. Perera, a former Commanding Officer of the 3rd. Battalion of the Gemunu Watch.
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“…………It is a matter of great pride to all Officers and Men who are now serving and also to those who have served in the past, to be presented with Colours. Let the Motto of the Regiment, Ma Nivatta Abhikkama - “Tarry Not Forward” be the inspiring words for every Officer and Soldier in the Regiment and for those who are yet to join in the future, to uphold the pride and honour for all time in the service of the Nation……..”
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Colours of any Regiment are very often considers to be the most dignified and magnificent Regimental heritage and as a Symbol of undaunted prowess, bravery and heroism and as an epitome and embodiment of glory, glamour and splenduor.
Regimental Colours are a development of the banners of medieval nobility, which in turn trace their origin back through the ensigns and standards of the Romans, Greeks, Egyptians and Sinhalese. The custom of carrying Colours originates in the days of early man, who hoisted family symbol on a pole and held it high in battle for the dual purpose of indicating his position and acting as a rallying point should the need arise. The Greeks did the same with a piece of armour affixed to a spear and some Romans held high an Eagle.
From the times when men fought in organized bodies and soldiers fought opposing forces, they have always had a symbol or a flag visible over the field of battle to indicate their leaders and to signify the advance or retreat of their columns. The sight of these symbols reminded soldiers of their past deeds in battle, stimulated resolution and courage, nurtured 'espirit de corps' and rallied, enthused and motivated them towards even greater deeds of valour against all odds to achieve success and victory.
The Badge of the tribal chief could be seen at a distance and in close country, and it is in the use of those badges for war purposes that the origin of Regimental colours lies. It is not difficult to appreciate that the badge of totem of a persistently successful family or tribe would acquire an atmosphere of veneration. Medieval chivalry followed the same idea, when armorial signs were placed on their banners so that these could be seen well above the melee. The symbolic aspect of the subject is concisely summed up by Hulme, in his book, "The Flags of the World"
".....
So soon as man passes from the lowest stage of barbarism the necessity for some special sign, distinguishing man from man (i.e. Individual desire), tribe from tribe, nation from nation, makes itself felt; and this prime necessity once met, around the chosen symbol, stirring memories quickly gather that endear it, and make it the Emblem of the Power and Dignity of those by whom it is borne".Following on this statement it will not be difficult to appreciate that regimental 'espirit de corps grew up naturally round the Regimental Colours of our modern armies.
The Roman flags and banners reposed in their temples after the battles were over. The Christain churches in England sometimes lent their religious banners to be taken into the field of battle. This link between the military and the ecclesiastics-between the arts of war and the blessings of religion - may have been the origin of the Ceremonies of Consecration of Colours that are traditionally performed before Colours are presented, to invoke divine blessings for protection, success and victory. Such blessings make Colours sacrosanct and therefore venerated.
In Sri Lanka too, history records that in the times of the Sinhala Kings they carried their Banners after the performances of religious blessings. The use of banners or flags was not unknown during the period of Kingship in Sri Lanka. In war the banners carried with heraldic devices. The Great King of Sri Lanka King Dutugemunu, his predecessors as well as his family successors by generations to generations, bore the Royal Lion Banner displayed with the emblems of Sun and Moon which signify the eternity of royal lineage.
Such systems were extinguished at the end of Kingship in Sri Lanka when it became a Colony of the British Empire in 1815. The British system of the award of Colours which had developed into the grant of two Colours to a Regiment in the 18th Century manifested itself in the British Colony of Ceylon in the 20th Century in 1922 when the Volunteers of Ceylon Light Infantry were presented with a Sovereign's Colour and a Regimental Colour.
When the British Army was trying to accept a system of regimentation at the beginning of the the 17th Century each company was allotted a Colour, a custom which persisted for about one hundred years thereafter.
Military Colours have developed from these early beginnings. The first known regulation for Colours was published in 1747 by R. Napier, Adjutant General. In England in 1751 infantry regiments were allowed two Colours - a King's Colour and a Regimental Colour. Such Colours were presented by the Sovereign or Head of State in appreciation of a Regiment's or Battalion's record of commendable service and loyalty. The privilege of carrying the Sovereign's Colour or President's Colour and the Regimental Colour presented by the Sovereign or the President is thus regarded by the Regiment or Battalion as a signal-mark of distinction and honour. Such Colours represent the Sovereign's or Head of State's patronage of the Regiment or Unit; they represent its traditions and honours; they instill in its members a sense of pride in the possession of such Colours and motivate resolution and courage and high ideals.
Colours have been carried in the fields of battle until comparatively recent times. History records that many Generals have steadied their men in the confusion of battle and spurred them to victory by displaying the Regimental Colours. The practice of carrying Colours into battle since 1751 continued until the beginning of 1881 during The Boer War in South Africa when this custom was discontinued because of the altered forms of attack and increased range of musketry which brought risks to and loss of valuable life attending the practice of carrying Regimental Colours into action.
Now that Colours are no longer carried in action, it will not be possible for them to become battle - scared as formally but, nevertheless, each successor of a Set of new Colours, like the heir to a great family, inherits the traditions, glory, honour and veneration acquired by its predecessors.
Colours now repose usually in their respective battalion headquarters. They are paraded at ceremonials and trooped on occasions before their officers and men. They remained venerated - always the symbol of the Battalions traditions, honour and service; the symbol of patronage by the Head of State; the symbol of its history, its corporate life, its resolution and courage.
On 22nd May 1972 Ceylon proclaimed itself The Republic of Sri Lanka. In 1979 , the first Commanding Officer of the Ruhunu Regiment which was disbanded in 1956 and also the First Commanding Officer of the 3rd (Vol) Battalion of The Gemunu Watch Col. C. A. Dharmapala and the then Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion of the Gemunu Watch Lt. Col. B. A. Perera sought in 1979, the grant of a President's Colour and a Regimental Colour for itself. This was granted by His Excelleney The President and the Ceremonial Presentation of Colours to the 3rd (Vol) Battalion of The Gemunu Watch was scheduled. Simultaneously, representations lead by Col. P. Pakshaweera, TheCommanding Officer of 1st Battalion of the Gemunu Watch were granted equal rights along with the 3rd and 2nd Battalions of the Gemunu Watch to carry the same Colours identified by battalion numerals placed over the Colour. Col. P. Pakshaweera with his experiences in UK revealed the fact how British Army practice provides when one Battalion of a Regiment carries the Sovereign's Colour and a Regimental Colour all other battalions of that Regiment then exist are entitled to carry the same Colours, (each Battalions' Colour identified by its respective battalion numeral placed over the Colours).Then the Ceremonial Presentation of Colours to the 1st (Reg) 2nd (Vol) and 3rd (Vol) Battalion of the Gemunu Watch was scheduled to take place at the Esplande in Galle on 15th August 1980, before the Army representatives, invitees to the ceremony and the public.
In consequences of the Multi-religious faith among the nationals of Sri Lanka, the Consecration of the Colours was performed by dignitaries of the Buddhist, Christain, Hindu and Muslim faiths.
The 1st (Reg) Battalion was commanded by Lt Col P. Pakshaweera, 2nd (Vol) Battalion by Lt Col LDE Sugathadasa and the 3rd (Vol) Battalion of the Gemunu Watch by Lt Col B. A. Perera. His Excellency The President first presented a President's Colour and Regimental Colour to the two Colour Officers of 1st Regular battalion: and he next presented President's Colours and Regimental Colours each to the Colour Officers of 2nd (Vol) and 3rd (Vol) Battalion respectively.After the presentation, His Excellency, The First Elected President of Sri Lanka addressing the three Colour Battalions of the Gemunu Watch said, "lam very pleased as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Services to present the President's Colour and Regimental Colour to the 1st Battalion The Gemunu Watch and to The 2nd Volunteer Battalion and 3rd Volunteer Battalion of the Gemunu Watch.Colours are presented to Regiments in recognition of their devoted service to the Country and the State and as a symbol of their "rallying" together and building up "espirit - de - corps".
Further His Excellency the President said that the three Battalions of The Gemunu Watch The 1st Battalion raised on 7th December 1962, the 2nd (Volunteer) Battalion raised on 1st October 1964 and The 3rd (Volunteer) Battalion raised on 1st September 1965 are young in years but inherit traditions of over two -thousand years.
I have no doubt that the officers and men of these Regiments will continue to render loyal and efficient service to the country in the future, whilst perpetuating the fame of King Dutugemunu from whom the Regiment derives its name.
I charge you to preserve and protect these Colours for all time "
After the presentation, the new Colours were trooped by all- the three Battalions of the Gemunu Watch and the Battalions Marched Past His Excellency in Slow and Quick time.
THE PRESIDENT'S COLOUR
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THE REGIMENTAL COLOURS
A blazon of the Regimental Colour of the Gemunu Watch would be border of Blue with a Liyawela designed in Gold Colour running within it with Cross-Swords and a Conch -shell (Valampuri) each placed at the four corners of the border; held by the border a field of Gold with ten Spears in Emerald Green and a field of Red. (1st and 2nd Battalions now use Blue instead of Emerald Green). In the centre the Regimental Insignia; The Peacock, with beautifully spread feathers, on the Red back ground guarded by the Emblem of Son and Moon in Gold and the Motto of the Gemunu Watch appears under the Insignia. At the four corners of the Colours four Velayudhas depicted. Below the Regimental Insignia it is denoted the numeral of the Battalion, followed by the regimental designation.
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The Liyawela : The design of Liyawela (appeared only on The Regimental Colour of The 3rd Battalion used in ancient flags and banners, a reproduction of sinhala art, in gold colour runs round the border of the Colour is used to symbolize the unity of The Gemunu Watch, its growth, flourishing and its perpetual continuity.
The Cross-Swords and the Conch Shell : The cross swords in the four corners of the Colour depicts all round protection the unit offers in service to the country and the Conch-shell (Valampuri) is symbolic of victory in all its ranks. The sounding of the Conch-shell after a battle waswon,was theway theSinhala Armies announced their victory.
The Velayudha : This was an ancient weapon commonly used by Sinhala Warriors specially during King Dutugemunu. It is also the common belief that the Velayudha or the spear was a weapon used by King Mahasen, great grand father of King Dutugemunu, now venerated and popular as, the Guardian Deity of Ruhuna, God Kataragama. The four Velayudhas at the four corners symbolize that the every direction of the country is totally guarded by God Kataragama. Velayudhas pointing towards the Regimental Insignia implies, while symbolizing the Infantry Arm, the Regiments pledge to protect, defend and keep secure the whole country from one direction to another.
The Ten Spears : The Ten Spears in emerald green on the gold back ground of the Regimental Colours of The 3rd (Vol) Battalion and spears in blue on the gold background of the Colours of the other two Battalions represent the ten generals who served in the Army which lead King Dutugemunu to victory over King Elara. The ten generals were experts in various arts of war in the ancient days. These ten Maha Yodhayas were Nandimitra, Suranimala, Mahasena, Gotaimbara, Theraputtabhaya, Bharana, Velusumana, Kanchadeva, Pussadeva and Labhiya-Wasabha.
The Sun and the Moon: Inclusion of Sun and Moon in the Colour depicts the facts that the Gemunu Soldier is on readiness by day and night till the Sun and MOon exist. It was also an ancient custom to include the Sun and the Moon in the banners. This was found on the Royal Lion Banner of King Dutugemunu to signify for ever and ever.
The Peacock : The Peacock, the most beautiful bird in the world, is also proud and regal in the centre of the Colour is of great significance due to many reasons. This bird is said to be the Vehicle (Vahana) of God Sri Skanda, popularly known as God Kataragama, the guardian Deity of Ruhuna. The King Dutugemunu also used the Peacock with great importance.
The Pike Heads : The gilt ornamental metal head of the Pike that holds the President's Colour based on the model of the ancient moon stone that depicts the Sinhalese Art and Culture influenced by Buddhist Philosophy is decorated with four engraved Conch Shells (Valampuri) surmounted by the Armorial Crest of Republic of Sri Lanka.The Pike Head that bears the Regimental Colours at its base depicts the Unit by way of the four peacocks facing the four directions. Over this the Army Headquarters Symbol placed to represent the Sri Lanka Army. The state symbol is over the Army Symbol. At the base of the Pike-head there are ten emerald-green stones depicting the ten Generals of King Dutugemunu. Significance of different colours : The colours of red, white, gold, emerald green and blue are of special significance.The Red Colour been used as the Colour of Victory, it is the colour of the Lion appears in the Royal Lion Banner used by King Dutugemunu and his clan. As it is the Colour to symbolize warrior Mars and God Kataragama, The Red Colour is embeded in the Colours to perpetuate victory in battle.White is used for "purity" and "innocence" and also used as the colour of absolute victory over the enemy and also the victory over Self and eternal 'peace'Gold is the colour of Ruhuna where King Dutugemunu raised his powerful army. Gold denotes the religious but disciplined armv of soldiers.The emerald-green is used to symbolize the strength.Blue represents the God Vishnu, the God Uttpala-Vanna of Devinuwara, Matara, the Watch Deity of the whole-Island of Sinhaladweepa.
EPILOGUE
There is no more appropriate epilogue to this article on the History of the Colours of the Regiment of the Gemunu Watch than to quote excerpts from the messages echoed at the Ceremony of Presentation of Colours on the 15th August 1980 at Galle Esplanade, firstly, by Major General J. E. Denis Perera, ndc, psc, MBIM, then Commander of the Sri Lanka Army.
"......... This is a great occasion in the history of the Gemunu Watch and I have no doubt that the inspiration of being presented with Colours by the Head of State will strengthen the spirit that exists amongst all ranks of the Gemunu Watch.
GEMUNU was one of the greatest King of Sri Lanka. Coincidentally, the ashes of this great king were enshrined only this year and personnel of the regiment were associated with the enshrining ceremonies. The regiment is undoubtedly proud of the name it bears and will certainly have to live up to it... "
Secondly by Lt Col P. Pakshaweera then Commander of the 1st Battalion.
".......... On this historic occasion I consider it my proud privilege to be in command of the Battalion. However, it is my duty to record the loyal service and sacrifice of the past Commanding Officers, especially that of Lt. Col J. F. Halangoda (Senior), the first Commanding Officer of the Battalion. The Battalion also recognise the dedicated and loyal service of all other Officers and Men-serving or retired. It is due to their great hearted Endeavour that the Regiment has been found worthy to be presented with Colours today. Let us rededicate ourselves to continue to serve with honour and to diligently follow the Battalion Motto...."
Thirdly, by Major General (then Brigadier) T. I. Weeratunga the former Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion and the first Army Commander from the Gemunu Watch.
"......... The spirit of the Gemunu Watch has been inspired by the tradition and achievements of one of the greatest sons of Sri Lanka King Dutugemunu who was renowned for his military leadership, sense of justic and fairplay. The Gemunu Watch is dedicated to live upto these ideals. The Colours which the Gemunu Watch are honoured to receive today will be a constant reminder to the members of the Regiment of their duty to protect the ideals and traditions of soldiering in the cause of our Nation.
Finally, by Col. B. A. Perera a former Commanding Officer of The 3rd Battalion of The Gemunu Watch.
"............ It is a matter of great pride
to all officers and men who are now serving and also to those who have served in the past to be presented with Colours.
Let the Motto of the Regiment-Ma Nivatta Abhikkama -"Tarry Not, March Forward" be the inspiring words for every Officer and Soldier in the Regiment and for those who are yet to join in the future, to uphold its pride and honour for all time in the service of the nation..."
