General Jagath Jayasuriya assumed duties as the Chief of Defence Staff this morning. General Jayasuriya earlier served as the nineteenth Commander of the Sri Lanka Army since July 15, 2009.
He handed over his duties as the Army Commander to his successor Lieutenant General Daya Rathanayake on July 31, 2013.
General Jayasuriya is a recipient of several awards and military decorations, including Vishishta Seva Vibhushanaya (VSV), Uttama Seva Padakkama (USP), Army 50th anniversary medal, Long Service Medal and Clasp, 50th Independence Medal, Desha Puthra Sammanaya, North and East Operations Medal, Poorna Bhoomi Padakkama, Riviresa Campaign Service Medal.