Country at decisive stage - Defence Secretary

Sandasen MARASINGHE

Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa yesterday stated that the country has reached a decisive stage where it should decide on measures to handle the current situation in the country to prevent any recurrence of terrorism.

He made this observation at a ceremony held to mark the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the Commando Regiment at the Commando Regiment Headquarters in Ganemulla. Defence Secretary Rajapaksa commenting on the service rendered by the Commando Regiment said the service by the Commando Regiment during the last four years to eliminate LTTE terrorism and bring about peace to each inch of this country was remarkable and commendable. Secretary Rajapaksa also said that the loss suffered by those whose fathers, husbands, sons, family members sacrificed their lives as brave commandos in the battlefront are irreparable.

The situation was same with the commandos who were rendered disable at the war front.

He asserted that the only thing the country could do is to pay its respect appreciating their service made for the country. He also stated that the service of those who sacrificed their lives, rendered disabled and retired after the completion of service was made so important and significant by the fact that LTTE terrorism was eliminated from our ground.

Secretary Rajapaksa also said the ceremonies to commemorate the services of valiant war heroes was timely and thanked those who organized the ceremony including the Army Commander.

Certificates in appreciation of their remarkable service was delivered to the commandos in service, disabled, retired and to the closest relatives of the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country.