UNPARALLELED SACRIFICES OF FALLEN WAR HEROES REMEMBERED TO COINCIDE WITH 73RD ARMY ANNIVERSARY OF THE CORPS OF SRI LANKA ENGINEERS

The Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers commemorated its 73rd anniversary with a solemn ceremony honoring fallen war heroes at the Regimental Centre’s War Heroes Monument on Wednesday, 6th November 2024. The event paid tribute to the Sapper Soldiers who gave their lives in the fight against terrorism for the nation. Families of the fallen heroes, including spouses, children, and other relatives, gathered to honor their memory.

The ceremony commenced with the lighting of the monument lamp, symbolizing eternal remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice. A brief interfaith sermon by Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, and Islamic clergy invoked blessings on the fallen Sapper Soldiers, setting a respectful tone for the observance. A two-minute silence followed, allowing all present to collectively reflect on the sacrifices of the war heroes. The solemn silence was accompanied by the stirring sounds of the traditional "Ranabera Wadanaya," a military musical tribute that underscored the courage and spirit embodied by the fallen heroes.

Major General Lanka Amarapala RWP RSP ndc psc, Commander Security Forces (West) and Colonel Commandant of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. He placed the first wreath at the War Heroes Monument, honoring their memory as the sounds of bagpipes filled the air. This moment, marked by grief and gratitude, was witnessed by a steadfast monument that stands as an immortal testament to the nation’s war heroes. Following the Chief Guest, Major General S A Kulatunge RWP RSP VSV USP psc, the Commander Security Forces (East), Major General D K S K Dolage USP psc, the Commandant Defence Services Command and Staff College and the Colonel Commandant of Sri Lanka Army Medical Corps, Major General K A N Rasika Kumara ndc psc, Director General Media and Psychosocial Operations and the Colonel Commandant of Corps of Engineer Services, Major General D B L Colonne USP, Major General T C Peirisi RSP USP, the Chief Field Engineer of the Sri Lanka Army, Council Members, Commanding Officers, Regimental Sergeant Majors, and family members of the Sapper Soldiers laid floral wreaths in tribute.

As dusk approached, the ceremony closed with the sounding of the "Last Post," a traditional military tribute played by Army buglers, followed by the "Reveille," symbolizing the enduring spirit of the fallen heroes. This moving tribute concluded the formal ceremony, leaving a profound sense of reverence for the sacrifices made by these brave soldiers.