Protecting peace, a prime duty of the Air Force - Part II:

‘Security must be secured with great sacrifices’

Text of speech for the Passing Out of the 53rd Intake - Sri Lanka Air Force, delivered by Defence and Urban Development Ministry Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, on August 4.

Though some sections of the arts and entertainment community had doubts about the ability of military personnel to undertake such work, even those who were critical are commending the exemplary work done by those officers today. This shows very clearly the value of the training and the skills that you receive during your service in the military, and how it enables you to adapt to the different demands of society and the country.

In terms of national security, we must remember that even though the 30 year long war has ended, it is the primary duty of all military personnel to ensure the continued security and stability of our country. We must protect the peace that was achieved with great difficulty and great sacrifice. Although you will not be engaging in offensive operations, it is essential that the duties you perform in a passive role will prevent the regrouping of the terrorists and prevent the emergence of new threats.

We know that there are remnants of the LTTE still operating outside Sri Lanka, and there are others even within Sri Lanka who may try to destabilise the peace. It is very important that we remain vigilant about such threats. We must ensure that peace and stability continues, enabling us to build a better future for all Sri Lankans.

Humanitarian Operation

Since the end of the Humanitarian Operation, the government has done a great deal of work to bring back peace and stability to Sri Lanka. Military personnel have been at the forefront of this effort as well.

The difficult task of demining the North has been almost completed, and the military was given the responsibility for clearing the largest area of land. By the end of July, nearly 300,000 IDPs who were in government care after the war have been resettled. Further, the government has successfully reintegrated nearly 12,000 LTTE cadres who surrendered at the end of the Humanitarian Operation.

Most of the LTTE cadres who were detained at various stages during the past several years have also been rehabilitated and released. With the resettlement of the civilians and the reintegration of former cadres, normalcy is returning to the North.

The government has undertaken major infrastructure development projects in the North and East. It has built up the road network, including the major A-9 and A-32 roads; it has expedited electrification, irrigation and projects to enhance availability of drinking water.

Our Armed Forces have helped people rebuild their homes; the military has built schools and playgrounds for children; it has conducted health camps and medical clinics; it has provided assistance for the people to resume their livelihoods. This showcases the professionalism and dedication of our Armed Forces: after winning the war, they immediately set out to win the peace.

The President and the government of Sri Lanka have always recognised the invaluable service of the military to this nation. A lot has been done to look after the interests of Armed Forces personnel. To look after those brave soldiers who were gravely disabled during the war, the Ministry of Defence together with the Sri Lanka Army has opened the Mihindu Seth Madura in Attidiya and the Abhimansala in Anuradhapura. The Ministry of Defence has also started a special network of schools for the children of Armed Forces personnel; in just six years since it was started, the Defence Services School at Malay Street in Colombo has gone on to become one of the best schools in the country. Further, the Ministry has also started a scholarship programme for the children of the Armed Forces who are in schools.

The Welfare and Seva Wanitha Units of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces are building houses for personnel who need such assistance. Under the Api Wenuwen Api programme, a large number of houses have already been constructed in all Districts and handed over to Armed Forces personnel.

Brave soldiers

In recognition of the service of the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the war, the President awarded medals for gallantry, including the Parama Weera Vibhushana, the highest award given to Armed Forces personnel, at the Victory Day Parade. The government has also recognised the sacrifices made by the families of such brave personnel, and medals have been awarded to the immediate family members.

The parents of serving soldiers who fought from the start of the Humanitarian Operation to the end of the war will be given an allowance every month to recognise their dedication and contribution. The government has also thought about the welfare of retiring soldiers, and has created a company under the Ministry of Defence called Rakna Arakshaka Lanka to employ them after retirement if they so wish. This gives them yet another opportunity to continue their service to the nation.

As the young officers and recruits of the Sri Lanka Air Force, all of you have long careers of service and dedication to your country ahead of you. This is a rare privilege, and I trust that you will make maximum use of this opportunity to discharge your tasks with enthusiasm, integrity, and courage. When you reflect on your careers, I hope you will be able to look back with pride at having achieved great things for your country.

In closing, I once again take this opportunity to wish you every success.

Thank you.

Concluded