25th March 2024 16:28:38 Hours
The military funeral of Major General W.H.M. Manatunga (Rtd) of the Gemunu Watch (GW), who had served the country for more than 34 years, took place on 24 March 2024 at Borella general cemetery.
Troops, in accordance with military traditions, received the remains, presenting arms near the entrance to the cemetery before placing the coffin in the gun carriage, draped in the National flag.
As the funeral procession reached the main entrance to the cemetery, a representative gathering of Senior Officers formally received the coffin and began to move towards the crematorium, with all of them, together with family members, lining up behind the coffin.
The formal Special Part I Order, issued by the Adjutant General of the Sri Lanka Army, was then read out to the mourners as the occasion turned solemn. Troops, in conformity with military traditions, saluted the deceased, presenting a symbolic gun salute, the highest tribute a military Officer could receive in the event of his demise.
Minutes after the Last Post, the bugle call that signaled the Officer’s final rest, the remains were taken to the crematorium.
Afterwards, Major General S.P.A.I.M.B Samarakoon Hdmc Lsc, the Deputy Chief of Staff, presented the bereaved family with decorations and medals that Major General W.H.M. Manatunga (Rtd) had earned during his illustrious career, in keeping with general traditions in the Armed Forces.
Senior Officers, Retired Senior Officers, Officers, Other Ranks and family members of Major General W.H.M. Manatunga (Rtd) participated in the funeral ceremony.
Here follows the Part 1 Order read out at the funeral; "
