On this momentous occasion, as we proudly commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Army assuming its pivotal role in safeguarding our nation, I, as the senior-most serving officer with over forty years of active service and in my capacity as Chief of Defence Staff, extend my heartfelt compliments to the Commander and all esteemed members of the Sri Lanka Army.
It is with profound pleasure and satisfaction, I emphasize that all Sri Lankans enjoy the blessings of a peaceful society, free from the fear of death, owing to the courageous and unimaginable sacrifices made by the gallant members of the tri-services, led by the Sri Lanka Army, in securing the territorial integrity and sovereignty of our beloved nation against relentless challenges over the last seven and a half decades.
At the same time, I remember the valiant heroes who made the supreme sacrifice, those who still bear the scars of the brutality of war, and those who continue to endure suffering, with utmost gratitude and respect. Therefore, it is our shared responsibility to sustain the peace secured through the sacrifices of the lives, limbs, flesh, and blood of the brave men of this nation for future generations.
I believe that the incredible bravery and unmatched humanity demonstrated by our war heroes on the battlefield brought about the greatest triumph over the most ruthless terrorist organisation in the world at the time; a feat that no other military in recent history has been able to match.
The belief that ‘nothing is impossible,’ deeply rooted in the hearts of our heroic warriors, combined with their invincible spirit and steadfast devotion to our motherland, propelled them to achieve a victory of unparalleled significance.
Our heroes remain ever vigilant to protect this country, ensuring that no malicious element disturbs the peace and harmony of our nation. In all the unprecedented crises this nation has faced, including the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the Sri Lanka Army took the lead, becoming the nation’s foremost entity in ensuring the safety of the people, despite the immense risks posed to their own lives, earning a special place in the hearts of all Sri Lankans.
On this special occasion, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Commander and all members of the Army, from the highest ranks to the junior-most, for their strong commitment and exemplary service in safeguarding our nation and their invaluable contributions to nation-building.
Similarly, my heartfelt gratitude extends to all the former Commanders of the Army for their precious leadership and guidance, to the retired officers and other ranks, as well as to the civilians who served alongside us, for their remarkable efforts in elevating this prestigious institution to its distinguished status today.
As we have upheld the pride and legacy of our Army for the past 75 years, we shall determine to do the same in the future, driven by the blend of determined dedication, unity and discipline of all the members of our eminent organisation.
The journey undertaken by the Sri Lanka Army in upholding higher standards and striving for continuous excellence has been full of challenges and obstacles. However, I firmly believe that the Army possesses the strength and resilience to overcome any future challenges it may encounter.
At this remarkable juncture, I wish the Commander and all members of the Sri Lanka Army; courage, fortitude, and untiring resolve in all their future endeavours, along with the blessings of the noble Triple Gem. I wholeheartedly trust that the Sri Lanka Army is the true “Defender of the Nation.”
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