Army Day :

Involved with development drive

by Dhaneshi YATAWARA

They eradicated terrorism to let us live in peace. They sacrificed their lives and lost their limbs to save us and our future generation. What have they gained? It is the ultimate happiness of saving the motherland. They are the most precious Sri Lanka Army - true sons of the nation.

October 10 is their day - Army Day. Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya, the Army Commander, being proud to be in his seat at their 60th anniversary said the Army will continue to be the strength in developing the country. Speaking to the ‘Sunday Observer’ on Army Day Lt. Gen. Jayasuriya stressed it is the duty with great importance to take care of their comrades - those who gave their youth to the country expecting only victory and freedom.

Following are excerpts of the discussion:

Q: In your view, how do you assess the growth of the Army over these 60 years?

A: It has developed in leaps and bounds. During the period I joined the Army in 1978 I, as a young officer was able to witness the ceremonial Army and within a few years, especially after 1983 we had to grow to be a strong fighting army to save the country. We had to become a proper fighting army.

Through these sixty years the Army functioned under various political leaderships. We passed several phases of the Eelam war. Today, we are strengthened with experience, knowledge, power and specially a straight forward leadership and it is a remarkable achievement. The victory we achieved makes us significant in the world.

Q: Nearly three decades the Army had to fight against a ruthless terrorist organization. Today, the Army celebrates its 60 years with victory over terrorism. What is your opinion at this especial juncture?

A: The present Government, with the clear and unbending leadership, carried a remarkable will-power to eliminate terrorism. They never averted from the main aim of eliminating terrorism. That is why it is so significant in our history. The great leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and strong guidance of Secretary of Ministry of Defence Gotabhaya Rajapaksa truly were strong pillars for this victory. Requirements of the Armed Forces to carry out their job were never rejected, undermined or delayed. Our political leadership very well understood that the country’s highest priority was to become free. They never bent to the unseen or the foreign forces that tried to stop us from victory. It was a great strength to us.

Q: How would the future of the Army be?

A: It will be more involvement with the national development drive. We find that the President and Senior Presidential Advisor Basil Rajapaksa have no hesitation to support us in performing our duties in the development work and resettlement process, especially those carried out in the Northern Province.

We are a disciplined Army. We do not carry corruption or delay our duties. Hence, I believe the Army can be an efficient and effective work force at this juncture. We can guarantee a proper efficient service. Of course, our primary responsibility is to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. Hence, security measures will continue as well. We are strong and experienced to face any threat that would try to sabotage the peaceful environment of the country. We are vigilant at all times to detect even the minute existence of terrorist elements in the country.

Q: What are the measures taken to provide welfare facilities to the officers and soldiers?

A: As the Army was totally dedicated to eradicate terrorism, soldiers did not have regular chances of going on holidays. As a result, many family matters were neglected. To bring them back to the normal lifestyles several welfare facilities are there. Loan schemes, scholarships for their children etc. are there and we are in discussion with the relevant authorities to expand these facilities and give priority to those officers and soldiers who fought the war. In fact, we have provided options on our website as well for those who are interested to donate a scholarship for a child of a soldier or extend their support the way they can. We plan to establish a new rehabilitation centre for the disabled soldiers at Anuradhapura as we have to cater to more at present. We need to open such centres in each district in the future.

Q: What is your view on officers and soldiers of your Army?

A: The country can be very proud of them. And patriotic citizens should be proud of them. It is the average soldier who did the real work to win the war. It is our duty to care for them and look after them.

Q: How do you feel to be able to hold the Commander’s post at the time the Army is celebrating its 60th anniversary?

A: Very fortunate. And I really feel proud to be the Commander of the Army when the country is enjoying true freedom. Since I was directly involved with the intense battles during the last phase of the humanitarian mission I feel very honoured to lead the Army after its victorious gain.