SLCMP TAKES PRIDE IN THE 76TH NATIONAL INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

Independence Day holds immense significance while marking the nation's liberation from foreign rule, symbolizing self-determination and sovereignty. This pivotal day commemorates historical milestones and sacrifices, fostering national unity and pride with the glorification of the armed forces for their unwavering commitment, sacrifices and valor in safeguarding the country. Accordingly, on 4^th February 2024, the Mother Sri Lanka marked her 76^th National Independence Day at Galle Face Green under the theme of "Let's build a new country" with multitude of spectacular events. His Excellency the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe graced the day as the Chief Guest along with Hon Prime Minister and a host of distinguished multi-religious, diplomatic, ministerial, defence, state and civil dignitaries and invitees.

The SLCMP executed ceremonial and field duties during the Independence Day celebrations withholding decorum and reflecting the glamour in order to seamless conduct of the national event. The Overall operation was carried out under the guidance and direct supervision of the Provost Marshal of the Sri Lanka Army and the Colonel Commandant of the Sri Lanka Corps of Military Police, Major General A C A De Zoysa USP Hdmc Lsc.

Being the Ceremonial Battalion of the Sri Lanka Army, following ceremonial duties were performed by 5 SLCMP at the grandstand premises for the first time in history under the patronage of the Commanding Officer, Major I M K Suddagala Lsc:

a. Ceremonial Motor Cade
b. Door Opening Duties
c. Protocol call - up
d. Dais Guard

Moreover, 1 SLCMP executed following all field duties under the command of Major V N M Jayasekara USP Lsc, the Commanding Officer of 1 SLCMP:

a. Traffic Control and Crowd Control
b. Vehicle Parking
c. Manning of Charge Rooms at Galle Face Green
d. Mobile and Foot Patrolling
e. Convoy Escorting
f. Body Checking Duties
g. Checking the Clearance of Mechanized Column and the Foot Column
h. Liaison with Civil Police , Relevant Ministries and Other Higher Authorities

Besides, SLCMP orchestrated a spectacular parade, showcasing precision, discipline, and national pride. The parade troops coordinated by RHQ SLCMP, marched in perfect formation with the rhythmic drumbeats performed by the Brass Band displaying the esprit de corps. In addition to that, the checking of the security clearance of the foot and mechanized column were coordinated by the Colonel Provost and Staff Officers of the Directorate of Provost. The Centre Commandant and Staff Officers of the RHQ SLCMP provided the administrative support while ensuring the comfort and wellbeing of the provost troops who committed to this glamorous event.

While in an appreciative tone at the end of the day, the Provost Marshal of SL Army and the Colonel Commandant of Sri Lanka Corps of Military Police, Major General A C A De Zoysa USP Hdmc Lsc extended his gratitude to the Centre Commandant, Colonel Provost, Commanding Officers of 1 and 5 SLCMP, Staff Officers of RHQ and Directorate of Provost, all Officers and ORs for the successful conduct of the duties.