Commemorating the Legacy of KDU – X in Service of Sri Lanka

Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) Intake KDU – X completed its distinguished 31-year tour of duty on November 8. On 8th November 1992, 73 young, energetic, and patriotic individuals decided to embark on this esteemed journey to pursue a professional military career.

This decision occurred just three months after the passing of the iconic military leader, Lt Gen. Denzil Kobbekaduwa. It was a critical time when the nation direly needed patriotic leaders to combat the LTTE menace that had plagued the country. KDU became the breeding ground for these young individuals, fostering, nurturing, and equipping them with skills.

KDU – X was guided by some of the finest military instructors available at that time. In December 1995, the culmination of three years of rigorous training took place at KDU, the Military Academy in Diyathalawa, the Naval Maritime Academy in Trincomalee, and the Air Force Military Academy in Trincomalee.

While KDU – X was achieving hard-earned milestones, some of its members had to make the supreme sacrifice in the name of the motherland. Consequently, Captain MS Abeysekara WWV, Captain BSN Fernando, Major KD Attanagoda, Major TAV Mackelvie, Major MNPN Jayasinghe, 2nd Lieutenant VHK Nanayakkara, Major PMJP Perera, Captain NAA Sriyanjith from the Sri Lanka Army, Lt Commander NCK Abeysinghe, Lt SPK Muththettuwatta, and Naval Cadet RKJN Rajapaksha from the Sri Lanka Navy made the supreme sacrifice from KDU X, shedding blood side-by-side on the battlefield for freedom, safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. They laid down their lives for others to enjoy a time of great change.

For 31 long years, KDU – X officers have had the privilege of serving this great nation with duty, honor, courage, commitment, vision, tenacity, and spirit.

They have served the country with distinction, navigating through their professional and distinguished military careers passionately and meaningfully, upholding the motto of the KDU, “For the motherland forever (Siya Ratatamai Kawadath).”

In commemoration of 31 years of service, KDU – X honors the devotion and bravery of all who fell in this noble calling of military service. While this day is typically spent recalling the valor of Course mates who died in combat, let us not forget those silent professionals who answered the noble call to serve the people of Sri Lanka.

In honoring 31 years of unwavering commitment, KDU – X stands to commemorate the valor, dedication, and resilience of those who have selflessly devoted themselves to the noble cause of military service. While this occasion traditionally revolves around commemorating the courage of comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice in battle, it is equally crucial to recognize the silent yet resolute professionals who responded to the noble summons to safeguard and serve the people of Sri Lanka.

Their unyielding commitment and sacrifices, often unseen, have been the cornerstone of the nation’s safety and the safeguarding of its people. On this significant anniversary, let us pay tribute not only to the fallen heroes but also to the unsung champions whose dedication forms the backbone of our nation’s defense and security.

The post Commemorating the Legacy of KDU – X in Service of Sri Lanka appeared first on DailyNews.