EASTERN HEADQUARTERS CELEBRATES ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY ON A GRAND SCALE PRIORITIZING RELIGIOUS RITUALS

The 20th anniversary of the Security Force Headquarters-East (SFHQ-E) was celebrated with a series of events starting from 26 October 2023 to 31 October 2003 with the guidance of Major General Prasanna Gunaratne RSP ndu psc IG, the Commander Security Forces-East.

The 20th Anniversary Celebration began with multi-religious activities to evoke the blessings of all religions. The Commander and troops of Eastern Headquarters attended the special service conducted at St. Mary's Cathedral, Batticaloa on 26th morning followed by ceremonies at Al-Aqsa Grand Jumma Mosque, Kattankudy, and Murugan Kovil, Kallady. Religious ceremonies culminated with the special Bodhi Pooja conducted at Somawathiya Stupa on 29 October 2023.

A volleyball tournament was held on 27 October 2023 with the participation of troops from affiliated battalions and prizes and trophies were awarded to the winners as a part of the anniversary programme.

On the anniversary day (31 October), in accordance with the military traditions Major General Prasanna Gunaratne RSP ndu psc IG, the Commander - Security Forces-East was honored by a Guard Turnout followed by a colorful military parade presented by the under-command troops of SFHQ-E. The Eastern Commander addressing the troops during the parade, praised the troops for their selfless commitment and hard work to maintain a peaceful atmosphere in the East. The Commander Security Forces East further expressed his gratitude remembering all valiant war heroes who made supreme sacrifice and who wounded in action in safeguarding the unity and territorial integrity of the motherland.

To mark the 20th anniversary, a mango sapling was also planted in the Eastern Headquarters premises and later the Commander and staff posed for a group photograph. Further, the Commander participated for an All-Rank Tea at the Privet Mess. The successful conclusion of the 20th Anniversary Celebration was marked with a musical event held on 31 October night at the SFHQ -East playground. General Officers Commanding 22,23 & 24 Infantry Divisions, Major General GMN Perera RWP RSP USP ndc, Major General KVNP Premaratne RSP USP psc, Major General W Chandrasiri RSP USP psc, the Commander Forward Maintenance Area-East Major General HWDC Meththananda USP ndc participated the event together with Staff Officers of Eastern Headquarters, Brigade Commanders, Commanding Officers, Officers, and a cross section of Other Ranks serving under SFHQ -East.