13th June 2025 11:53:28 Hours
Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, the Commander of the Army, undertook his maiden official visit to the Sri Lanka Military Academy on 6 June 2025 marking a significant moment in the Academy's calendar.
Upon arrival, the Commander was warmly received by the Commandant of the SLMA and honoured with a Guard Turnout at the main entrance. The visit commenced with a solemn floral tribute at the Academy’s War Heroes’ Memorial, in remembrance of the fallen heroes who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation.
Subsequently, the Commander was accorded a Guard of Honour, presented by a smartly turned-out contingent of officer cadets, showcasing the highest traditions and discipline of the Academy.
Afterwards, as a symbolic gesture of environmental stewardship and legacy, the Commander planted a sapling within the Academy premises. He then proceeded to the Officer Cadets’ Mess, where he penned a note in the Visitors’ Book, reflecting on the significance of the visit and the enduring role of the Academy in shaping future military leaders.
To mark the occasion, a formal exchange of mementoes took place between the Commander of the Army and the Commandant of the SLMA, symbolizing mutual respect and the strengthening of institutional ties.
Toward the end of the visit, the Commander unveiled a statue forged from worn horse shoes erected at the Equestrian Section and attended the formalities of ceremonial opening of the Indo-Lanka Friendship Reading Section of the Major Indika Walisundara Memorial Library of SLMA.
