21st January 2024 09:23:56 Hours
On the evening of 19 January 2024, the APTS Gymnasium - Panagoda hosted a spectacular 'Sappers Colours Night 2024' to recognize and honor the exceptional sports prowess of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers. The aim of the event was further widen to inspire all ranks to elevate their sporting talents for both national and international standards. The esteemed Chief Guest, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, Commander of the Army, graced the event at the invitation of the Commandant Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force and the Colonel Commandant of the Corps, Major General MK Jayawardena RSP VSV USP ndu.
The evening commenced with a welcome address from Centre Commandant Brigadier SPG Gamage RWP RSP USP, setting the tone and elucidating the event's objectives following the recital of the regimental song.
The Commander of the Army's arrival was accompanied by Major General MK Jayarawdena RSP VSV USP ndu and Brigadier SPG Gamage RWP RSP USP. The highlight of the night was the symbolic awarding of Colours to 128 sportsmen and sportswomen, recognized for outstanding achievements that brought pride to the Country, Sri Lanka Army, and the Corps. Notable mentions included two senior-most Major Generals, Major General AHLG Amarapala RWP RSP ndc psc and Major General SA Kulatunge RWP RSP VSV USP psc. The pinnacle of the event unfolded as Chief Guest, Commander of the Army took the stage, cordially invited to symbolically award Colours to twelve outstanding performers whose records were most admired over the past three years.
In a commendable gesture to promote regimental sports prowess, the Commander of the Army presented a substantial cash gift of Rs.1 million towards the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers sports fund, dedicated to uplifting the sporting skills of future sportsmen and sportwomen.
Retired Commander of the Army, General NUMMW Senanayake (Retd) RWP RSP VSV USP USACGSC, Chief of Staff Major General WHKS Peiris RWP RSP VSV USP ndu, Deputy Chief of Staff Major General SPAIMB Samarakoon Hdmc Lsc, Senior Officer, past Colonel Commandants of the Corps, and retired Major Generals and Brigadiers who were previously awarded regimental colours were in attendance. Commanding Officers of the Engineer Regiments, along with Other Ranks, were also present.
The event concluded with the Colonel Commandant delivering the vote of thanks, marking the culmination of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers Colours Night 2024—a truly prestigious and memorable occasion.
