13th August 2023 12:33:10 Hours
The outgoing Eastern Commander, Major General Darshana Wijesekera was saluted in accordance with military traditions during a formal farewell, held at the Security Forces Headquarters - East (SFHQ - E), premises.
On arrival of the Eastern Commander, a Guard Turnout at the entrances and a Guard of Honors parade in the parade square at SFHQ - E honored the outgoing Commander. After, he signed the handing over documents in his Office and posed for few group photographs at the SFHQ - E, compound as a symbol of memory, On Friday (11 August).Furthermore, the outgoing Eastern Commander addressed the troops of the SF - East, thanked all ranks for their generous assistance and support extended to him during his tenure. A memento was also awarded to him from SFHQ - E, 22 Infantry Division and 24 Infantry Division as a souvenir. An All Rank tea marked the occasion in accordance with military traditions to mark the relinquishment of his appointment. The same day a farewell dinner hosted in the evening honored the outgoing Eastern Commander by Officers of the SFHQ - E at the Officers’ Mess, a memento was also awarded to him as a souvenir for the exemplary leadership shown during his tenure.
The 22, 23 Infantry Divisions General Officer Commanding, Brigadier General Staff with all staff Officers and other ranks of SFHQ - E, Brigade Commanders, Commanding Officers, and Officers were present during the occasion.
Although, the Eastern Commander, days prior to his farewell for the new appointment, visited the 23 Infantry Division at Punani on 10 August 2023. The General Officer Commanding, Brigadier KVNP Premaratne RSP USP psc, and all officers warmly welcomed Major General Darshana Wijesekera on his arrival. In accordance with military traditions, saluted by Guard Turnout as a Drive past and later he addressed troops under the 23 Infantry Division. Also the General Officer Commanding of 23 Infantry Division presented a memento to the Eastern Commander in the troop address.
Adding memories to the day, the outgoing Eastern Commander was invited to plant a sapling on the premises and pose for a group photograph. Summing up the series of events, all Senior Officers, and Officers hosted a farewell lunch in honor of the outgoing Commander at the Officers’ Mess 23 Infantry Division. Before his departure, the Commander left a couple of thoughts and compliments in the 23 Infantry Division visitors’ books.
