War heroes remembered for supreme sacrifice

by Uditha Kumarasinghe

The fallen war heroes who made the supreme sacrifice on behalf of the motherland were remembered at a solemn ceremony at the War Memorial at the Battaramulla Parliament grounds yesterday evening.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa who graced the occasion as chief guest was warmly received by the Chairperson of Rana Viru Seva Authority (RVSA) Padma Wettewa along with Defence and Urban Development Ministry Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa and conducted to the special dais. Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne, Ministers, Parliamentarians, Provincial Ministers, Governors and foreign dignitaries also graced the landmark event. The President on his way to the special dais was seen exchanging pleasantries with relatives of the war heroes.

After being conducted to the venue, President Rajapaksa received the salute of the troops and stood to attention to the National Anthem. Just after the main Victory Day celebrations at the Galle Face Green, Defence and Urban Development Ministry Secretary, Chief of Defence Staff, Commanders of the three Armed Forces and the Inspector General of Police proceeded to the Battaramulla Parliament grounds to receive President Mahinda Rajapaksa who was the chief guest.

The RVSA chairperson welcomed President Rajapaksa and other distinguished guests by inaugurating the formal commemorative meeting. Winding up her speech, she requested to observe a minute's silence in memory of all war heroes who made the supreme sacrifice to safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the motherland. Later, religious observances followed.

The rhythmic beat of the traditional Jaya Bera was presented by the Tri-service and Police band as a symbolic gesture to depict the bravery and courage of the fallen war heroes of the three Armed Forces. Then, President Rajapaksa with the RVSA Chairperson walked up to the cenotaph and laid floral wreaths in memory of all war heroes. Later, Prime Minister, Government Ministers, military top brass, IGP, Defence and Urban Development Ministry Secretary and President's Secretary Lalith Weeratunga placed floral tributes. Finally, the next of kin of the fallen war heroes paid their respects. The children then lit lanterns in front of the monument as a mark of respect to the war heroes.