143RD ANNIVERSARY OF THE VOLUNTEER FORCE OF THE SRI LANKA ARMY VOLUNTEER FORCE

The historic Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force which was established on 01st April 1881 proudly celebrated its 143rd Anniversary on 01st April 2024 under the auspicious of Major General MK Jayawardena RSP VSV USP ndu, the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force (SLAVF). The anniversary programme included a series of events of military, social and religious significance while commemorating the War Heroes.

Accordingly, the first working day was marked with the anniversary day message issued by the Commandant. In his message, officers, other ranks and civil employees were paid a special tribute of gratitude on their commitment, loyalty and integrity on the Volunteer Force behalf. Further, the decorum of the volunteering that consigned to preserve the sovereignty on this land with the expertise of professions and skills was commemorated with the solemn memory of Captain SWMSU Aladeniya who was the first recipient of ParamaWeeraVibhushanaya. Thus, the Commandant extended his best compliments on the upgradation of the establishment in future.

The customary celebrations were undertaking with the arrival of the Commandant, SLAVF to the camp premises and he was warmly received by Major General Thusitha Silva KSP, Deputy Commandant, SLAVF. He was accorded a Guard Turnout and an elegant Guard of Hon our by the troops of the Sri Lanka Army Pioneer Corps.

The Commandant and Deputy Commandant paid their tribute by laying wreaths on the memorial of late Captain Saliya Aladeniya PWV in the gesture of cherished memories of fallen war heroes who sacrificed their innumerable lives in order to safeguard the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country before reviewing an elegant Guard of Hon our.

The day was followed by an all ranks lunch with participation of Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks of the Headquarters of the Volunteer Force.

In line with the celebrations; the Headquarters of the SLAVF integrated with a community programme at Sanda Sevana Elders’ Home. The day was arranged with a series of supportive daily chorus for the residents and the lunch was afforded for them on 27 March 2024. As well, a Seth Pirith chanting ceremony got underway on 28 March 2024, and 10 monks were offered Dhaana with other prikara at the Headquarters premises.

The occasion was attended by Brigadier Mahen Salwatura RWP RSP USP - Principal Staff Officer, Brigadier W G P Sisira Kumara RSP - Inspector of Training, Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force.