CORPS OF SRI LANKA ENGINEERS CELEBRATES ITS 67th ANNIVERSARY

In line with the anniversary functions a Floral Tribute to Fallen War Heroes in the Corps of Engineers was conducted at the War Heroes’ Monument. The event conveyed a deep reverence to the fallen War Heroes in the Corps of Engineers, who made the supreme sacrifice in liberating our motherland from the clutches of terrorism. A large gathering consisting of spouses, children, parents and next of kin of the fallen War Heroes participated at this event on 10th November 2018. On the invitation of the Colonel Commandant the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army Lt Gen NUMMW Senanayake RWP RSP USP USACGSC graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The event commenced with the Lighting of the monument lamp followed by the National Anthem, Army Song and the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers Song. Two minutes silence was observed in memory of the fallen war heroes followed by the Narration of remembering the Fallen War Heroes. A “Ranabera Wadanaya” was displayed as a special event of the day followed by religious observances of major denominations. A brief sermon by Buddhist, Christian, Hindu and Islamic clergy invoked blessings and offered merits on fallen Sapper War Heroes and those presently serving.

The Commander of the Sri Lanka Army Lt Gen NUMMW Senanayake RWP RSP USP USACGSC placed the first wreaths at the Ranaviru memorial and paid his respect while bagpipe music rent the air. Commander Security Forces(Jaffna) and Colonel Commandant of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers Maj Gen DDUK Hettiarrachchi RSP VSV USP ndu psc placed the second wreath. Subsequently floral tributes were laid by Senior officers, Commanding Officers and Regimental Sargent Majors. Finally the next of kin of the Fallen War Heroes laid wreaths in remembrance of their beloved whom they had lost.

With the dawning of the dusk, an all-night Pirith-Chanting Ceremony and a colorful “Perehera” got underway with the participation of the Commander of the Army, Colonel Commandant, and Officers of the Corps, Retired Officers, NCOs and relatives of the fallen War Heroes. The 67th Anniversary events culminated on Sunday (11th) morning with offering alms to the 67 members of the Maha Sanga. This ceremony was held under the auspices of the Colonel Commandant of Corps of Engineers. A large gathering of Sapper Officers, Other Ranks including retirees attended those anniversary programmes.