VOLUNTEER FORCE BIDS ADIEU TO THE COMMANDANT, MAJOR GENERAL D K S K DOLAGE USP nps psc

Major General D K S K Dolage USP nps psc, the 60 ^th successor in the officeof the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force (SLAVF) handed over his duties and responsibilities on 25 June 2025 at the Headquarters SLAVF amidst customary military formalities . The esteemed officer is poised to assuming duties as the Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army: a pivotal key military appointment, which is the second most senior position in the establishment.

Customary formalities observed in connection with the relinquishment of the office, commenced with the reviewing of the Guard Turnout accorded to the outgoing Commandant on his arrival to the camp premises. Major General Kapila Dolage was warmly received by Major General B M R J Bandara - the Deputy Commandant, along with the Principal Staff Officer SLAVF, Centre Commandant of the Sri Lanka National Guard and the Commanding Officer of the Headquarters Battalion, and the ceremonial proceedings began with the reviewing of a Guard Turnout salutation.

The outgoing Commandant paid his tribute by laying a wreath on the memorial of late Captain Saliya Aladeniya PWV in the gesture of cherished memories of fallen war heroes who sacrificed their lives on this soil.

In complying with the military formalities, the outgoing Commandant was ushered by the Deputy Commandant SLAVF to the saluting dais to receive the Guard of Honour awarded by the Sri Lanka National Guard amidst patriotic melodies in the air.

Addressing the troops, the outgoing Commandant extended his gratitude for the members of the Volunteer Force who integrated with him in realizing organizational objectives during his assignments of duties. Further, he stated that it was a great pleasure to command the SLAVF which is the first historical military establishment of the country formed in 1881. The Commandant emphasized personal and combatdiscipline as major aspects of military excellence, while a call to action, aligning with the vision “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative set forth by the government. The Commandant stressed the importance of the well-being of serving members and officers are expected to lead with professionalism while demonstrating genuine accountability, care and responsibility towards the Sri Lanka Army.

Major General Kapila Dolage unveiled his portrait in the office of the Commandant, adding to the legacy of distinguished leaders who have shouldered the burdens of responsibilities in the Volunteer Force.As a symbolic gesture of handing over duties, the outgoing Commandant signed the official documents and left a note of appreciation in the Visitors’ Book, encapsulating his journey and aspirations for the Volunteer Force.

Following the troop address, the outgoing Commandant planted saplings within the Headquarters premises, marking an exemplary gesture of environmental stewardship and lasting legacy.

The occasion was attended by Senior Officers and Officers who represented the Volunteer Force Headquarters and other respective military establishments.

The day’s proceedings reached the culmination with the departure of Major General Kapila Dolage amidst greetings of Officers and Other Ranks. His inspirational leadership and commitment have left an indelible mark on the Volunteer Force.