33RD COMMANDING OFFICER OF 1 FIELD ENGINEER REGIMENT ASSUMES DUTIES

Major D W G I D Somakeerthi USP psc SLE assumed duties as the 33rd Commanding Officer of the 1 Field Engineer Regiment on 5th August 2024 amidst formal military traditions and religious rituals. Newly appointed Commanding Officer was warmly welcomed by Major W A M Samaranayake SLE Officer Commanding of 10 HQ Squadron upon his arrival at the Headquarters premises.

Following the military traditions, the troops accorded a Guard turnout in honour of the newly appointed Commanding Officer in his arrival at the main entrance to the Regiment. A brief religious ceremony was conducted to invoke blessings for his new appointment at the Commanding Officer’s Office.

Newly appointed Commanding Officer signed an official document, symbolizing the formal acceptance of the office at the auspicious moment amidst the Pirith chanting by Maha Sanga. To signify this remarkable event of assuming duties, Commanding Officer planted a mango sapling at the RHQ Office premises of 1 SLE.

In line with the programme, the Commanding Officer addressed the all ranks and exposed his aim and objectives. There, he empathized the importance of maintaining discipline and good conduct in all levels to save the good name of the regiment and as a whole in this prestigious organization.

Further, he explained the intended plans for the enhancement of the standards of the military personnel and balancing the active service and family life as military personnel. Towards the end of briefing, Commanding Officer joined the All-Ranks Tea and took off a few minutes to share his thoughts with the gathering.