MAJOR GENERAL U D WIJESEKARA RWP RSP USP rcds psc TAKES OVER THE DUTIES AS COMMANDANT OF THE SRI LANKA ARMY VOLUNTEER FORCE

Major General U D Wijesekera RWP RSP USP rcds psc assumed duties on 09 October as the 53rd Commandant of the Sr iLanka Army Volunteer Force following a formal military formalities accomplished at the Volunteer Force Headquarters premises at Kosgama.

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 Major General Thusitha Silva KSP, the Deputy Commandant of the SLAVF. After reviewing the Guard Turnout, the newly appointed Commandant paid his tribute by laying a wreath on Parama Weera Vibhushanaya Memorial 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.

After a while, the newly appointed Commandant was ushered to the saluting dais by the Deputy Commandant of the Volunteer Force. The Guard of Honour was accorded in his honour by the troops of Sri Lanka National Guards at the parade ground of the Volunteer Force where the Commandant took the salute of the organization.

Later, whilst invoking the blessings of the Maha Sangha, religious rites and rituals were accomplished in the office of the Commandant. Amidst chanting of Seth Pirith by the Maha Sanga, Major General U D Wijesekera RWP RSP USP rcds psc placed his signature on an official document, symbolizing the formal acceptance of the office on his new appointment at the auspicious time.

Afterwards, the Commandant planted a sapling of Mango to signify his inauguration of the office at the compound of SLAVF and subsequently, the Senior Officer was accorded tea at Officers’ Mess by all invitee Officers and the serving members of the Headquarters.

The Commandant during his address extended his gratitude to all ranks for warm reception being accorded to him. He underscored that he looks forward to serve the Volunteer Force which has a proud history of 142 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. The Commandant also did not forget to extend gratitude for Fallen Volunteer War Heroes and those wounded in action while appreciating their contribution.

A large gathering of Officers and soldiers who attended to congratulate the Commandant included Centre Commandant of Sri Lanka National Guards, Brigadier Coordinating Officers, Colonel Coordinating Officers, Liaison Officers of Security Force Headquarters and Commanding Officers of Volunteer Battalions along with the staff of HQ SLAVF.