CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF PINS POPPY FLOWER

The precursor to the forthcoming Poppy Day that recollects the memories of fallen war heroes, the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association delegation, the forerunner behind commemorative arrangements, met the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil, yesterday morning (25 September 2023) at the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff.

The President of the Ex-Servicemen’s Association, Major General Upul Perera (Retd) pinned the poppy flower on the Chief of Defence Staff marking this year’s Poppy Day celebrations organized to remember the fallen war heroes where CDS contributed the fundraising for the welfare of the families of the fallen war heroes and wounded soldiers. The first poppy flower was pinned on His Excellency President Ranil Wickremesinghe on the occasion of the remembrance of Poppy Day this year.

Poppy Day, an occasion that holds immense significance worldwide, is a time for nations to remember and pay tribute to their fallen war heroes. In Sri Lanka, this day serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by brave men and women who served their country with unwavering commitment.

The Poppy flower's association with remembrance dates back to the aftermath of World War I, where it was inspired by the famous war poem "In Flanders Fields" written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae. Since then, the red poppy, which grows amid the graves of fallen soldiers in Flanders, Belgium, has become a universal emblem of remembrance for those who sacrificed their lives in service to their nations.

The President Poppy Committee of Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association, Major General Upul Perera (Retd), and Secretary of Ex-Servicemen’s Association, Lieutenant Colonel Ajith Siyambalapitiya (Retd) along with several other members of the Poppy Committee joined the occasion. Finally, the CDS appreciated all attendees for their efforts taken towards the success of the entire endeavour which would honour the bravery of war heroes who sacrificed their lives to safeguard the nation.