MAJOR GENERAL U K D D P UDUGAMA RWP RSP USP ndc psc TAKES OVER DUTIES AS THE COMMANDANT OF THE SRI LANKA ARMY VOLUNTEER FORCE

Major General U K D D P Udugama RWP RSP USP ndc psc who is presently holding the appointment of Colonel of the Gajaba Regiment assumed duties as the 62nd Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force following a formal military formalities accomplished at the Volunteer Force Headquarters premises at Kosgama on 04 April 2026.

The day’s proceedings scheduled in connection with the commencement of the office as the Commandant began on his arrival to the venue. He was warmly received by Brigadier H A Hapugoda USACGSC psc, Principal Staff Officer, Brigadier H A Keerthinatha RSP KSP psc, Brigadier Administration and Colonel E D T P E Bandara, the Commanding Officer of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force. After reviewing the Guard Turnout, the newly appointed Commandant paid his floral tribute by laying a wreath on Memorial of Captain Saliya Aladeniya to immortalize cherished memories of thousands of fallen war heroes who sacrificed their innumerable lives in order to protect the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country.

Later, he arrived to the office and placed his signature on an official document, symbolizing the formal acceptance of the office on his new appointment at the auspicious time whilst invoking the blessings of the Maha Sangha. Following the religious rites and rituals, he posed for a group photograph with the officers of SLAVF in front of the office complex and planted a sapling to signify his inauguration of the office at the compound of SLAVF.

The Commandant during his maiden address to the troop of SLAVF, he conveyed his propound gratitude to the Commander of the Army to appoint him as the Commandant SLAVF and all ranks of SLAVF for warm reception being accorded to him. The Commandant reminded Fallen Volunteer War Heroes and those wounded in action while appreciating their contribution to the three decades prolonged war in the country.

He mentioned that he looks forward to serve the Volunteer Force which has a proud history of 145 years and consisting of soldiers who enormously contributed in liberating the country from the cruel clutches of the terrorism as well as during the post war scenario by contributing their services in the maintenance of essential services of the country at its requirement. Further, he highlighted the paramount three pillars, discipline, knowledge and efficiency which are highly valued for the progression and the smooth function of the entire organization.

Later on, a tea reception was held in his honour, providing a platform for the Senior Officer to interact with the officers of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force. Prior to his elevation as the Commandant SLAVF, he held the prestigious appointment of Commander of the Security Forces Headquarters (West).

Principal Staff Officer, Brigadier Administration, Brigadier Logistics of the Volunteer Force Headquarters, Brigadier Coordinating Officer of SFHQ (West), Officers and Other Ranks attended the event to congratulate the newly appointed Commandant.