15th December 2023 17:36:32 Hours
Sri Lanka Armoured Corps celebrated its 68th Anniversary on 15 December 2023. Major General S W M Fernando WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc, Military Secretary and the Colonel Commandant SLAC graced the Corps Day anniversary ceremonies as the Chief Guest, held at Rock House Army Camp.
At the outset, Guard Turnout, followed by floral tribute to the statue of General Deshamanya D S Attygalle MVO idc psc and Chief Guest was warmly welcomed by the Major General M S Devapriya USP ndc, GOC 64 Infantry Division along with Brigadier P N Wijesiriwardena RSP USP, the Centre Commandant SLAC and Brigadier L K T Fernando RSP USP, the Commander Armoured Brigade. Then the glamorous Anniversary Parade saluted the Chief Guest in conformity with military traditions. After reviewing the parade, Chief Guest conveyed his best wishes and warm greetings to Retired and Serving All Ranks and Members of the Civil Staff while paying tribute to all fallen War Heroes and blessed speedy recovery for injured War Heroes.
During the parade, upon the performance made during the year, the trophies were awarded to best SLAC regiment by the Colonel Commandant and the 4th Armoured Regiment was able to clinc the most outstanding regiment trophy for the year 2023, while 5 Reconnaissance Regiment and 1 Reconnaissance Regiment became 2nd and 3rd positions respectively.
As a special event Colonel Commandant awarded the Colonel Commandants' honours for the first time in 68 years history, to Officers & Other Rankers; those who have shown the outstanding performances in local, foreign courses and sports events during the year 2023.
As part of the anniversary programme, the President of Veterans Association SLAC, Major General M P Peiris (Rtd) RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc along with its members donated 6 scholars to children of SLAC families.
Meanwhile, participating Senior Officers gave away gifts and trophies to the winners in different events and competitions and the launching of Armoured Corps Journal 2023 took place at the same venue.
The spectacular event culminated with the All-Rank lunch on the premises and General J Jayasuriya (Rtd) RWP VSV USP ndu psc, Mrs Lali Kobbekaduwa, many reputed retired members of the Cavalry family, Senior Officers/Officers, and Other Ranks participated for this occasion.
