Army Day message:

Army commander hails brave soldiers

Army Commander Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka issuing a message to mark the Army Day (yesterday) that coincides with its 58th Anniversary hails the sacrifices of his soldiers in defence of their motherland. Here is the full text of his message:

“I am delighted to issue this message as the Commander of the Army in connection with the 58th Anniversary of the Sri Lanka Army and Army Day. When the Army’s proud history is viewed in retrospect, the services rendered by you for defence of the unitary status of the motherland, provision of humanitarian requirements of the civilians and all efforts to create peace are laudable and worth-mentioning.”

“Braving all threats and hurdles, you all are performing an exemplary task as a disciplined Army in a fearless manner while protecting masses and the sovereignty of the motherland. You deserve honour and tribute of all Sri Lankans for that noble task.

All Sri Lankans expect us to clear the way for an honourable peace and we are expected to commit for that. Likewise, to make that goal realize, we all must be dedicated and committed keeping in mind the provisions of the Constitution of the country.”

All your efforts, meant to liberate people of all ethnicities affected by the barbaric cycle of terrorist attacks while providing those civilians with their humanitarian needs, have no doubt promoted the image and dignity of the Sri Lanka Army.

All successes starting from Mavilaru up to the liberation of Silavathura remain concrete evidence in this connection. In the future too while the Army continues to march forward triumphantly, the Army will crush terrorism in order to convince them that their problems could not be solved through terrorist acts.

“Terrorists while engaging themselves in a fierce battle and a bout of violent activities for many years on the pretext of a ceasefire agreement almost for four years have unsuccessfully tried to win over us. Yet the Army realising its role and responsibilities has acted with restraint mustering commendation from all quarters in the world. I feel happy about it.

The Army troops now serving UN peace keeping operations were in for praise of the foreign nations and I would like to recall their dedication with pride and dignity. All sacrifices hitherto made by those soldiers including those who went missing in action and laid their lives for the defence of the motherland are remembered with gratitude. Their beloved parents, sons and daughters are also remembered and I wish to offer my gratitude to them.

The Sri Lanka Army as an organisation has won praise and honour of all the people in the country. Those members need to be all the time well disciplined, courteous and people-friendly. In no manner any corruption or wastage should be tolerated. All of you should work to preserve the dignity of the whole organisation”.