4TH ANNIVERSARY WAS CELEBRATED BY TROOPS OF 24 DIVISION
A series of military and CIMIC-oriented programmes were organized by the 24 Division of - Ampara from 13 to 28 November 2017 to celebrate their fourth anniversary. Anniversary celebrations got underway giving prominence to religious functions and community welfare activities on the guidance of Major General Mahinda Mudalige RSP USP ndu, General Officer Commanding 24 Division. \r\n\r\nReligious observances commenced in the morning on Monday (13) with a Bodhi Pooja and Alms Giving at Somawathiya Temple in Polonnaruwa with the view of invoking blessings for the flag and all ranks serving under the 24 Division. A Shramadana Campaign had also been organized on 22 by the troops in order to clean the Sarana Elders’ home premises in Ampara town.\r\n\r\nA special all night Pirith Chanting ceremony was organized at the Division premises on 24 November to bless the flag and all ranks serving in the area of responsibility followed by an Alms Giving (heel danaya) for 25 members of Maha Sangha in Ampara area on 25 November. Further, a colourful perahera was held from Majithpuram junction to Division premises with the parading of Sacred Cascade. GOC carried the Cascade to the “Pirith Mandapa” joined by all Bde Comds / COs and the staff of 24 Div. The magnificent Pirith Mandapa was built by the 24 Division personnel. \r\n\r\nOn the same day evening, Officers and Other Ranks took part in the Hindu religious activities at Sri Manikya Pillayar Kovil Ampara and Islam Prayers at the Majithuram Jumma Mosque at Malwatte. The Catholic Mass was held at the St. Ignatius\' Church - Ampara on Sunday 28. \r\n\r\nOn Monday 27 a Guard Turnout and a Guard of Honour were accorded to Major General LM Mudalige RSP USP ndu, General Officer Commanding by the troops of 23 SLSR. Later, the Commander 24 Division planted a Mango sapling (Mangifera Indica) in memory of the 4th Anniversary celebrations. Afterwards, the Commander 24 Division participated in an All Ranks\' lunch organized at the Other Ranks\' Mess. On the same day afternoon GOC declared open the newly constructed Other Ranks’ holiday home at an auspicious time. Bde Comds/COs and staff attended the event.\r\n\r\nThe Anniversary celebrations culminated on Friday (28) with a grand musical extravaganza held at the Division playground participated by a large crowd consisting of Officers and Other Ranks serving in the Ampara area and sub installations.\r\n
