OCDS WELCOMES THE FIRST WORKING DAY OF THE NEW YEAR

The first working day of the New Year 2023 was commenced with the traditional working parade at the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff (OCDS) premises today morning (02 January 2023).

In line with the circular released by the government, the National Flag was hoisted along with the OCDS flag and the proceedings continued with observing two minute silence to remember the fallen war heroes and State Allegiance Oath was read by all staff of OCDS. The Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil attended the day’s proceedings and interacted with all Officers, Other Ranks and members of the civil staff during the all rank tea rich with traditional sweetmeats arranged at the Mihilaka Medura premises of the BMICH.

Subsequently, General Shavendra Silva addressing the gathering recalled the gallant war heroes who made the supreme sacrifice to liberate the country from the LTTE terrorists and requested all to keep the winning spirit throughout and serve as proud members of the services to preserve the hard earned peace for the future generations. He further, highlighted the importance of striking a balance between the personal and professional life to make a higher contribution and fruitful service to the country and the need of managing the economy of the home front at this challenging times. The CDS also advised all to equip themselves with the qualifications that are demanded by the contemporary world apart from the career progression in the Armed Forces.

The CDS conveyed his warm wishes to the staff of OCDS for the New Year 2023. The simple programme was attended by Chief of Staff, Major General Anil Udayakumara RSP USP USAWC psc, all Director Generals, Directors, officers, other ranks and civil staff of OCDS.