THE COMMANDANT OF THE SRI LANKA ARMY VOLUNTEER FORCE (SLAVF) VISITS TO THE 11 (VOLUNTEER) BATTALION OF THE GAJABA REGIMENT

Major General U K D D P Udugama RWP RSP USP ndc psc, Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force, visited the 11^th (Volunteer) Battalion of the Gajaba Regiment (11 (V) GR) on 5^th May 2026, with a view of enhancing and streamlining the administrative and operational functions within the battalion.

Major General U K D D P Udugama RWP RSP USP ndc psc accorded a drive-past salutation by the troops of the Gajaba Regiment and warmly welcomed by the Commanding Officer of the 11 (V) GR. Following the initial formalities, the Commanding Officer delivered a detailed briefing on the battalion's current undertakings and operational activities.

During troops address, the Commandant emphasized that the discipline is the "Core of an Army", and Army’s existence is inextricably linked to its disciplinary framework, which ensures operational success and maintains public trust. Moreover, he explained the importance of enhancing knowledge in steering the Army’s future progression towards a new direction, and clearly illustrated how this impacts the overall efficiency of the organization.

Further, addressing personal welfare and administrative discipline, the Commandant urged all personnel to seek professional solutions for personal life challenges rather than selecting Absence Without Leave (AWOL). He further instructed that any military personnel facing difficulties should first inform their senior leadership to find an internal remedy and if no other solution is available apply Releasing from Active Service Without Pay (RASWP) as a final measure.

Following the formal address, the Commandant conducted a detailed inspection of the camp’s infrastructure to evaluate the battalion's operational functionality and administrative discipline.

To conclude the day’s itinerary, Major General U K D D P Udugama RWP RSP USP ndc psc shared his remarks in the Visitors’ Book to commemorate his visit. The event was attended by Senior Officers, Officers, and Other Ranks representing the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force and the 11(V) GR.