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06th March 2024 19:00:08 Hours
Renewing the 74 years of Sri Lanka Army history, the first ever serving four star general who has 40 years of distinguished, unblemished and continuous service to the nation, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil marked his milestone day with a unique celebration at the Healing Home for War Heroes, ‘Mihindu Seth Medura’ in Attidiya yesterday (5 March 2024) evening.
A real tribute that any true military leader can pay to war heroes who are Wounded-in-Action (WIA) is to be with them mentally and physically. Being true to the same and prioritizing genuine respect, the CDS along with his spouse Mrs Sujeewa Nelson, batch mates and close friends dedicated their time to be with the war heroes who sacrificed their today for the betterment of the future of the nation and its people despite any other celebration. The event which was mainly scheduled to be with the inmates served as an opportunity for the CDS to engage in heartfelt conversations with the veterans, offering a listening ear and solace in sharing their memories.
On arrival at Attidiya, General Shavendra Silva and his spouse were warmly welcomed by an inmate and by the daughter of an inmate. Thereafter, General Shavendra Silva straightaway visited the bedridden inmates and engaged in a friendly dialogue and afterward gave away specially selected essential items for them. Thereafter, all invitees and inmates assembled at a specially arranged location in the institute for the day's programme where the Commandant Mihindu Seth Medura explained the function of the institute.
Afterward, the Army band and cultural troops showcased elegant performances to entertain the inmates and following that the inmates also presented their aesthetic skills during the event which was heart touching and the visitors commended their skills and capabilities.
In line with the day’s schedule, the CDS, President of the Seva Vanitha branch OCDS Mrs Sujeewa Nelson, batch mates and close friends distributed gifts items comprised of essential items among the war veterans who are currently accommodated in the ‘Mihindu Seth Medura’. Also wide screen TV and a Laptop gifted to the institution. This gesture honoured General Silva's four decades of unwavering dedication towards military personnel and the sacrifices they have made in service to their country.
Afterward, a specially arranged high tea that was personally sponsored by the CDS was offered to all inmates and invitees. The CDS addressing the gathering afterwards, explained his prime reason to choose this worthy cause to be with war veterans on this milestone day of his military career and the numerous sacrifices of the war heroes to liberate the motherland from the clutches of the LTTE. Meanwhile, inmates requested the CDS to sing a song and CDS fulfilled the request.
Prior to the departure of this senior most serving military officer of the country exchanged mementoes with Commandant ‘Mihindu Seth Medura’ and posed for a group photograph with inmates.
General Shavendra Silva enlisted in the Sri Lanka Army on 4th March 1984 as an Officer Cadet and was the 23rd Commander of the Sri Lanka Army. The most senior officer presently holds the office as the 8th Chief of Defence Staff. General Shavendra Silva's remarkable journey, characterized by resilience, victory, and unwavering commitment, stands as a beacon of inspiration for the Sri Lankan military and the nation at large. As he reaches this milestone, his legacy of selfless service continues to inspire future generations, reaffirming the enduring bond between the armed forces and the people they protect.
This meaningful event was organised by the staff of the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff (OCDS) under the direction and guidance of the CDS with the assistance of the members of the Seva Vanitha Branch of the OCDS under the leadership of its President Mrs Sujeewa Nelson.
The event was also attended by his batch-mates, close friends, Deputy Chief of Staff and senior officers from the Sri Lanka Army, senior officers of OCDS, members of the Seva Vanitha Branch of the OCDS, and members of the ‘Mihindu Seth Medura’.
