13th July 2024 16:01:29 Hours
In commemoration of the 40th Anniversary of the Army Service Vanitha Unit (ASVU), a ceremony themed "Veera Mata Uphara Ulela" was held on 12 July 2024 at Army Headquarters. This event was organised to appreciate the Parama Weera Vibhushana (PWV) and Weera Wikrama Vibhushana (WWV) medal holders, who sacrificed their lives for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation, and their next of kin.
The Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Gunaratne (Rtd) WWV RWP RSP USP ndc psc MPhil, and Mrs. Chitrani Gunaratne, President of the Ministry of Defence Seva Vanitha Branch, graced the occasion as chief guests. Upon arrival, they were welcomed by Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, the Commander of the Army and Mrs. Janaki Liyanage, President of ASVU, and were ushered to the function hall by the Army Cultural Dancing Troupe.
The ceremony began with the lighting of the oil lamp, followed by the singing of the ASVU song. Then, two minutes silence was observed in remembrance of the fallen War Heroes. A short video screening highlighted the valour and sacrifices of the medal holders.
Financial assistance and plaques were presented to the next of kin of PWV-awarded War Heroes who displayed extraordinary bravery in protecting the lives of their fellow soldiers, recognising their ultimate sacrifice by ASVU. Further, special awards were also given by Ministry of Defence.
The event featured performances by the Army dance troupes and bands. The Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and the Commander of the Army addressed the gathering, acknowledging the contributions of the war heroes and their families.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of a memento to the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence by the Commander of the Army and the President of ASVU. A tea arrangement allowed the guests to engage in friendly conversations. The event concluded with a group photograph and lunch for all attendees, hosted by ASVU.
Senior Officers, Officers, members of ASVU, and the next of kin of the PWV and WWV medal holders participated in the occasion.
