06th January 2026 14:48:13 Hours
Security Force Headquarters (East) traditionally commenced the New Year 2026 with ceremonial observances on the morning of 01 January 2026. The Commander, Security Forces (East), Major General J.S.B.W. Pallekumbura, RWP, RSP, ndu, psc, presided over the event.
To mark the dawn of the New Year, New Year greetings were first extended to officers, other ranks, and civil servants following the traditional milk offering. Thereafter, the National Flag and the Security Force Headquarters (East) flags were hoisted, and all ranks sang the National Anthem and the Army Song. A two-minute silence was observed in memory of the gallant soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. This was followed by the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and the reading of the New Year message of the Commander of the Army.
After, Addressing the gathering, the SF (E) Commander extended his New Year greetings and best wishes for 2026 to officers, troops, and civil servants. The ceremony concluded with an all-officers tea party held under the patronage of the Commander, Security Forces (East), during which dry ration packs were distributed among soldiers and civil servants of Security Forces (East) who were affected by the recent disaster. Thereafter, the Commander engaged in cordial discussions with all ranks
