27th November 2024 06:58:20 Hours
The 61 Infantry Division organized a customary felicitation ceremony for the newly promoted General Officer Commanding (GOC) 61 Infantry Division, Major General K T P De Silva RSP ndu psc, on 26 November 2024 at the division premises.
The charming event began with a ceremonial Guard Turnout to welcome Major General K T P De Silva, who was received at the entrance by Brigadier W M L S Dayawansa, the Deputy General Officer Commanding 61 Infantry Division. This was followed by a Guard of Honour presented at the division parade square. The Major General then participated in the planting of a sapling, symbolizing growth and prosperity.
Afterward, a group photograph was taken with Officers, visiting Officers from sister services and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers in front of the headquarters building. A all ranks tea party was subsequently held at the headquarters’ conference hall, bringing together all ranks in a moment of fellowship.
In the final segment of the event, Major General De Silva addressed the troops of the 61 Infantry Division, including those from under command brigades and battalions, at the lecture hall. During his speech, he reflected on his military career spanning over 33 years and emphasized the importance of cooperation between Officers and SNCOs. He also highlighted the challenges faced by students sitting for the GCE Advanced Level examinations due to prevailing adverse weather conditions and outlined the readiness of the division to implement relief measures to assist affected civilians.
The Deputy General Officer Commanding 61 Infantry Division, the Commanders of the 573 and 613 Infantry Brigades, Commanding Officers, Senior Officers of the division headquarters, visiting officers from sister services, Other Ranks, and Civil Staff of the 61 Infantry Division.
