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04th February 2024 17:10:03 Hours
Today (04 February), Sri Lanka proudly marked its 76th Independence Day with a dignified and grand ceremonial parade held at the historic Galle Face Green in Colombo. The nation, as a sovereign entity, celebrated this momentous occasion with fervour and reverence, highlighting its rich heritage and commitment to progress.
The day’s proceedings commenced with the arrival of the Chief Guest His Excellency Ranil Wickremesinghe, the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka amidst a colourful pageantry of Military Police outriders and mounted Policemen, amidst the heralded resounding sound of trumpets, setting the tone for a day of pride and dignity that epitomized the vibrancy of the occasion. His Excellency the President was welcomed to the occasion by Hon Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Ministers, and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
Thereafter, His Excellency the President was escorted to the main flag post by CDS, General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil along with Tri-Service Commanders and Acting IGP. Following that, a gracious moment unfolded as the President was invited by the CDS to hoist the national flag, accompanied by the stirring rendition of the national anthem by a group of school children.
A highlight of the ceremony was the colourful Tri-Service Guard of Honour presented to the President, followed by a customary 21-Gun Salute rendered by the Sri Lanka Artillery Regiment, honouring his leadership and commitment to the nation.
The Independence Day parade showcased the strength and unity of Sri Lanka's armed forces and law enforcement agencies, featuring impressive foot and mechanized columns from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Coast Guard, Civil Defence Force, National Cadet Corps and a segment of cultural performers. The Sri Lanka Navy and Air Force further demonstrated their prowess with captivating displays of naval and airpower alongside the ground parade.
The culmination of the day's festivities was marked by a spectacular display of show jumps performed by courageous para troopers from the Tri-Services and Police, captivating the audience and concluding the event with flair and admiration.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries including Guest of Honour Thailand's Prime Minister Honourable Srettha Thavisin, Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe, the First Lady of Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Speaker of the Parliament, Chief Justice, Governors, Ministers, Parliamentarians, Secretaries of Ministries, High Commissioners/Ambassadors and foreign dignitaries, senior Tri-Service officers, government officials, alongside many esteemed invitees further enhancing the significance of this momentous day.
As Sri Lanka commemorates its 76th Independence Day, the spirit of unity, resilience, and progress shines brightly, symbolizing the nation's unwavering commitment to peace, prosperity, and sovereignty.
