The Secretary of Defence, Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyacontha, says a Cabinet paper on the welfare of all retired service personnel, war veterans with disabilities and family members of veterans killed in the war, has been submitted for Cabinet recommendation.
Sampath Thuyacontha said that the Cabinet paper on their welfare, including necessary facilities and securing their future, has been submitted after reviewing the issues and challenges presented by these groups during the recent public day programs.
He further highlighted the current government’s commitment to fully discharge its responsibilities towards the welfare of all retired service personnel, war veterans with disabilities and the family members of those killed in the war.
The Secretary of Defence made the remarks while addressing the 81st Anniversary Celebration of the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association (SLESA) held in Colombo yesterday (28).
Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) attended the event as the Chief Guest, while other distinguished guests were warmly welcomed by the President of the SLESA, Lieutenant Colonel Ajith Siyambalapitiya (Retd).
Addressing the gathering, the Defence Secretary stated that the successful eradication of the brutal terrorism that plagued the nation for three decades was due to the correct leadership, timely decisions and systematically implemented plans by the senior officers of the then-Tri-Forces. He also expressed his gratitude for the immeasurable sacrifices and invaluable service rendered by all retired and fallen war heroes for the sake of the motherland’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and peace.
Furthermore, he emphasized that as the country moves towards sustainable development, it is crucial to motivate and guide the current youth population using the experience and knowledge of war veterans. He noted that this would contribute to building a patriotic and disciplined nation.
The celebration included the presentation of Meritorious Service Medals to members who have dedicatedly served the SLESA, and the ‘Lifetime Achievement’ insignia was awarded to current members of the association. Special honorary awards were also presented to recognize the exceptional service rendered to the association by Mr Quintus Andradi, Rear Admiral Anil Bowatte (Retd), Captain D Wijesinghe (Retd) and Captain I A Sirisena (Retd).
The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including retired Commanders of the Tri-Forces, the Commander of the Air Force, senior Tri-Forces officers, officials from the Ministry of Defence and members of the SLESA. (Newswire)