05th November 2021 03:19:51 Hours
On 04 November 2021, revitalizing an age-old military tradition, Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment Centre hosted a farewell ceremony by adhering all the safety measures stipulated by the Government and the health authorities to prevent the COVID- 19 pandemic, in honour of the retiring 19th Colonel of the Regiment of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment, Major General S P K A Pilapitiya RWP RSP USP at the Regimental Centre, Boyagane, Kurunegala, in which his 35 years of distinguished service was hailed and awarded accolades according to the instructions imposed by Army Headquarters.
Upon Colonel of the Regiment’s arrival at the VIR Regimental Centre, the Centre Commandant of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment warmly received the day's protagonist and a subsequent Guard Turnout at the entrance greeted him in accordance with military formalities. The next moment on the itinerary was solemn and dignified since memories would never die, as they say, giving pride of place to the memory of all fallen Vijayabahu War Heroes, Colonel of the Regiment, laid the floral wreaths at the War Heroes Monument and PWV Monument paid his tribute in a solemn ceremony.
The stage was set for the day’s highlight, next as the Parade Commander in his colourful attire reported the parade to the Colonel of the Regiment in accordance with military traditions. The ceremonial Guard of Honour with Regimental colours, accorded to the Colonel of the Regiment followed by customary addressing to the troops which he paid a special tribute to Former Colonels of the Regiment and Ex-Archers members for their dedicated service that made for the VIR one of the most elegant regiments in Sri Lanka Army at present.
Outgoing Colonel of the Regiment then placed his signature in a formal document in his office, symbolizing the relinquishment of duties and handing over the VIR legacy to his successor and next Archers Chief, Major General Nishantha Manage, the Commander ARTRAC. Leaving an indelible gesture in the premises, Colonel of the Regiment was later on invited to pose for a group photographs.
All Officers and Other Ranks of the Regiment Centre extended their heartfelt gratitude to distinguished outgoing Archers Chief for his commitment and dedication to the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment and wished him a healthy, wealthy, peaceful and prosperous retired life.
