This year's anniversary commemorations got underway on 6th October 2007 at Anuradhapura sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi after all regimental and unit flags were symbolically blessed amidst chanting of the Maha Sangha. Subsequently prayers and services of Hindu, Islamic and Christian faith were conducted separately in Colombo.

Today's climax at Colombo Army Headquarters, headed by Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka saw Commander inspecting Guard Turn Out and receiving the Guard of Honour as he reached the Commander's office complex in the premises. While senior officers and soldiers stood in attention Commander then went on to raise the Army Flag signifying the importance of the occasion. The recital of the Army song rent the air as the stage was set for religious observances of all faiths. Ven.Dodangoda Assaji Nayaka Thera performed Buddhist rites and it was followed by Hindu, Islamic and Christian faiths. Commander afterwards offered "Pirikara" to members of the clergy.

The occasion turned solemn, as the gathering recalled the sacrifices hitherto made by valiant soldiers of the Army and observed a two-minute silence in their honour. Next was the most important annual speech of the Army chief who paid a glittering tribute to all members of the Army, including the civil staff for the commitment they have shown so far for the promotion of the Army image. Here is what the Commander said on the occasion;

"All your efforts, meant to liberate people of all ethnicities affected by the barbaric cycle of terrorist attacks while providing those civilians with their humanitarian needs, have no doubt promoted the image and dignity of the Sri Lanka Army. All successes starting from Mavilaru up to the liberation of Silavathura remain concrete evidence in this connection. In the future too while the Army continues to march forward triumphantly, the Army will crush terrorism in order to convince them that their problems could not be solved through terrorist acts."

"Terrorists while engaging themselves in a fierce battle and a bout of violent activities for many years on the pretext of a ceasefire agreement almost for four years have unsuccessfully tried to win over us. Yet the Army realizing its role and responsibilities has acted with restraint mustering commendation from all quarters in the world. I feel happy about it," Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka said.

The Army troops now serving UN peace keeping operations were in for praise of the foreign nations and I would like to recall their dedication with pride and dignity. All sacrifices hitherto made by those soldiers including those who went missing in action and laid their lives for the defence of the motherland are remembered with gratitude. Their beloved parents, sons and daughters are also remembered and I wish to offer my gratitude to them, the Commander said.

The Sri Lanka Army as an organization has won praise and honour of all the people in the country. Those members need to be all the time well disciplined, courteous and people-friendly. In no manner any corruption or wastage should be tolerated. All of you should work to preserve the dignity of the whole organization, the Commander concluded.

The first leg of the Army day ceremony came to an end with Commander sharing a cup of tea with senior officers and all ranks.

After the military ceremony was over Commander and senior officers visited the Army hospital and gave away gift parcels to the inmates at the hospital. Showing fatherly love, he shared a couple of thoughts with those recuperating following injury in most recent confrontations with Tiger terrorists.

Late in the evening Commander and other senior officers went to Sri Bodhirajaramaya at the Panagoda Army Cantonment and joined the all-night Pirith Chanting ceremony. The commemorative events culminate with the alms offered to over one hundred Bhikkus, the following day (11).

Courtesy - army.lk