Plans are afoot to set up a fully-fledged permanent office building for Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association within the Defence Headquarters premises, Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne has revealed.
According to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Gunaratne said a plot of land comprising 175 perches has been earmarked for this purpose, clarifying that government funds will not be used for this.
The Defence Secretary made the observation while attending the 78th Anniversary Celebration of the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association (SLESA) in Attidiya yesterday.
Addressing the event as the Chief Guest, the Defence Secretary also recalled the deceased and differently-able war veterans and their noble services rendered to safeguard the motherland during the three-decade-long battle.
As we practiced in the recent past, we also look forward to enriching SLESA and its services along with the guidance of the current President, he also pledged.
Referring to the recent struggle and protests, he said it is saddening to see the disseminating of disgraceful video footage undermining the noble service of our young servicemen, under the guise of democracy.
Thus, he requested the ex-servicemen to encourage our young servicemen to perform their duties and protect the motherland.
The Defence Secretary pinned the ‘Gavurawanvitha Sewa Medal’ (Honorary Service Medal) on several SLESA members during the programme and also handed over a few books authored by him, to SLESA as a symbolic gesture.
The glamorous event saw the lighting of traditional oil lamp by the distinguished invitees followed by the welcome address by the SLESA President Maj. Gen. Upul Perera, at the outset. Life Membership was also presented to the selected SLESA members.
Signifying the improvements over the period, the progress report of the SLESA was also presented to the audience by SLESA President Maj. Gen. Perera, during the session.
An exciting entertainment sessions were also showcased during the colourful Anniversary Celebration.
Established in 1944, the SLESA has developed to a remarkable position as of today with over 45,000 members in the 48 affiliated Armed Forces Associations.
Secretary General of SLESA Lt. Col. Ajith Siyambalapitiya (Retd) delivered the vote of thanks marking the culmination of the event.
Army Commander Lt. Gen. Vikum Liyanage, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne, former Tri-Forces Commanders, Military Liaison Officer of the Defence Ministry Maj. Gen. Dinesh Nanayakkara, Secretary General of SLESA Lt. Col. Ajith Siyambalapitiya (Retd), a large number of SLESA members and distinguished invitees were present at the event. (NewsWire)