Polgahawela honours war heroes

Army Commander Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya attended a Ranaviru felicitation ceremony on Sunday evening where war heroes of all Three Forces and the police were felicitated.

The event was held at the Polgahawela Pradeshiya Sabha auditorium.

The ceremony was organized by Polgahawela Sashanarakshaka Balamandalaya, Provincial Council Polgahawela, Young Men’s Buddhist Association and 2600th Buddhist Anniversary Celebrations Committee. The occasion attended by a host of war heroes was graced by Lieutenant General Jayasuriya as Chief Guest.

Army Commander who had contributed actively towards rescue of the Jaffna Fort, operation Jayasikurui and Vanni humanitarian operations was awarded special parchment that extolled the achievements he had hitherto achieved during his military career. Representatives of the Navy, Air Force and Deputy Inspector of Police for Northwestern province were also given honours.

In addition, a special plaque was awarded to a representation of next of kin of Ranaviru families and disabled soldiers. Lieutenant General Jayasuriya reiterated that the success over LTTE terrorism was not due to an individual effort but a collective contribution of all.

He also reminded the gathering that it was President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa who gave leadership to the success over terrorism.

Ven. Udugama Sri Khemananda Thera, Polgahawela Sashanarakshaka Bala Mandalaya Secretary Ven. Nimalawa Chandrajothi Thera, and Mass Media and Information Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa were also present.