SRI LANKA ARMY VOLUNTEER FORCE PROUDLY CELEBRATES 140TH ANNIVERSARY

Pledging allegiance for being the defender of the nation at every instance ahead as served through past decades, Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force is excelling its elegant journey and marked its 140^th Birthday on 01 April 2021.

The Volunteer movement in the country which commenced on 01 April 1881 under the command of Lieutenant Colonel John Scott Armitage, evolved in to a formidable Force. The Volunteer Force actively engaged in the Boer War in 1899-1902, World War I and World War II and the contribution for safeguarding the sovereignty of the motherland is immensely commendable. Being the counterpart of the Regular Force, the Volunteer Force has been involving in preserving peace in national and international arena.

The entire camp premises integrated with solemn religious and ceremonial events pronouncing blessings and wishes for the future upgrading of the Volunteer Force under the patronage of Major General K N S Kotuwegoda ndc IG, the Commandant Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force. A series of events scheduled in parallel with the anniversary celebrations was being conducted on 30 & 31 March and 01 April 2021.

Invoking the blessings of Triple Gem, the resplendent golden casket and Maha Sanga were escorted to the camp premises by a traditional procession formed by the artists who are from Volunteer Force battalions. Pirith Chanting Ceremony which was organized magnificently commenced on 30 April 2021 and lasted to the following day (31 May 2021) with an almsgiving for Maha Sanga. In line with the main programme, the Headquarters organized a cleaning programme at Sendesewana Elders’ Home, Hanwella and Sarvodaya Suwasetha Children’s Home, Kosgama on 30 March 2021. Further, the residents at the homes were given with alms and presented them gift packs.

On 1^st of April, a Guard Turnout was accorded to Major General Sampath Kotuwegoda who later reviewed and accepted the salute of the Guard of Honour presented by the troops of Sri Lanka Artillery. With sense of gratitude, the Commandant offered floral tribute to the gallant war heroes of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force who made the supreme sacrifice for preserving the sovereignty and integrity of the nation. The day’s proceedings were culminated with All Ranks Lunch.

A cross section of personnel representing all the battalions of the Volunteer Force along with the Colonel Coordinating Officers at Formation Headquarters joined the staff of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force Headquarters to witness the celebrations of the 140^th Anniversary complying with the health directives issued for the COVID 19 pandemic.