03rd January 2022 13:40:58 Hours
Major General Lal Chandrasiri, the newly-appointed Commander, Security Force (East) made his maiden visits to the 24 Infantry Division, 241 and 242 Infantry Brigades during December 28, 29,and 30.
The Commander firstly arrived at the Headquarters 24 Infantry Division, Malwaththa, Ampara and received by Major General Chaminda Lamahewa, General Officer Commanding, 24 Infantry Division before the visiting Commander was greeted to a Guard Turn Out at the main entrance in conformity with military traditions. Afterwards, the Commander, SF (East) was invited to plant a ‘Jack’ sapling inside the 24 Infantry Divisional Headquarters premises.
Addressing the troops, the Commander, Security Force (East) urged them to be determined to ensure the unity among the Officers and Other Ranks and to ensure personal health adhering to safety precautions during this pandemic situation. Further, he insisted the need of preserving the image of the Army through maintenance of highest standards of discipline at all levels and he highlighted the vested responsibility of the Army to strengthen the government’s effort of producing organic fertilizer as a national endeavor in present context. Moreover, the Commander highlighted on the importance of organic fertilizer which paves the way to a green economy and he pointed out the importance of implementation of Biogenic Green Agriculture technology within the AOR.
The Commander SF-E on the same day, visited the Historic Deegawapiya Temple with the intention of reviewing the status quo of ongoing renovation of Deegawapiya Stupa and inspected the project carried out by Army and Civil Security Department (CSD) to produce 25 million bricks to be used for the restoration of ancient Deegawapiya Stupa. Thereafter, he visited the Quarantine Center Norochcholai, Ampara and inspected the availability of facilities at the centre while giving necessary instructions to the authorities.
Meanwhile, the Commander SF-E on 29 Wednesday and 30 Thursday visited the 241 Infantry Brigade, 242 Infantry Brigade and their under command battalions. The new SF-E Commander during those visits too were greeted to a Drive Pass salutes at respective venues after he was warmly welcomed by all the Brigade and Battalion Commanders and they had an opportunity to discuss matters pertaining to administration aspects, operational needs, welfare measures and requirements of the troops during this two-day field visit. The visiting Commander addressed the troops at those formations and educated them on his vision and the importance of preserving the image of the Army. Further, the Commander SF-E vested a house for a needy family in Pothuvil area, constructed by 23 Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment.
Ultimately, the SF-E Commander visited the Muhudumaha Viharaya and Neelagiri Viharaya in Ampara.
