THE COMMANDANT OF THE SRI LANKA ARMY VOLUNTEER FORCE VISITS 12TH (VOLUNTEER) ENGINEER SERVICES REGIMENT AND 3RD (VOLUNTEER) BATTALION THE GEMUNU WATCH

Major General K V N P Premaratne RSP USP nps psc, the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force (SLAVF) undertook an official visit to the 12 (Volunteer) Engineer Services Regiment at Kaburupitiya and 3 (Volunteer) Battalion The Gemunu Watch at Matara on 06 March 2026.

The schedule of visit by the Commandant SLAVF plays a vital role in maintaining a well-functioning establishment and aims to review the battalion’s operational and administrative performance.

In line with the scheduled itinerary, the visit commenced at the 12 (Volunteer) Engineer Services Regiment and continued to the 3 (Volunteer) Battalion The Gemunu Watch.

In keeping with military protocol, the Commandant SLAVF was received with a Guard Turnout and a Drive-Past salute upon arrival at the respective battalions. Subsequently, the scheduled briefings were conducted by the Commanding Officers of the 12 (Volunteer) Engineer Services Regiment and 3 (Volunteer) Battalion The Gemunu Watch covering ongoing operational activities and providing an outlook on future plans.

In his subsequent address, the Commandant emphasised the importance of self-awareness as a fundamental element of professional excellence. He encouraged all soldiers to clearly understand their identity, mission, purpose and specific objectives in order to achieve optimal performance in both military duties and civil engagements. During his address, he also stressed key principles including integrity through competence in individual roles, fostering mutual respect by recognising the responsibilities and jurisdictions of fellow service members and ensuring accountability in the excellence of all assigned duties.

In recognition of his leadership and engagement with the forces, the Commandant SLAVF planted a sapling at the 12 (Volunteer) Engineer Services Regiment camp premises, and took part in other military ritual accorded in honour of his arrival at the battalions.

In conclusion of his visit, the Commandant entered complimentary remarks in the Visitors’ Books of the respective battalions, acknowledging their high standards and dedication to national service.

The event was attended by the Principal Staff Officer of the SLAVF, Colonel Coordinating Officer (Volunteer) of the 16 Infantry Division, Senior Officers and Officers representing the Headquarters of the Volunteer Force, along with representatives of the corresponding Volunteer battalions. Subsequently, the Commander of the 163 Brigade and the Liaison Officer of the Regimental Headquarters, the Gemunu Watch also joined the visit to the 3 (Volunteer) Battalion The Gemunu Watch.