http://www.dailynews.lk/2012/11/05/sec04.asp

President committed to War Heroes’ welfare - Defence Secy

Defence and Urban Development Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa unveiled a Ranaviru Monument (Cenotaph) built in memory of War Heroes of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment (VIR) of the Sri Lanka Army on Saturday. The ceremony was held at the VIR Headquarters in Boyagane, Kurunegala.

Defence and Urban Development Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa unveils a Ranaviru Monument (Cenotaph) built in memory of War Heroes of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment of the Sri Lanka Army on Saturday

The cenotaph is built in memory of 3,050 officers and other ranks who laid down their lives to safeguard the nation against the LTTE. Regimental Commander Major General R V Samaratunga paid tribute to the 135 officers and 2,915 other ranks of the VIR heroes during his welcome address.

Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment

* Named after King Vijayabahu I * VIR formed to enhance service, strength of Army * Setup at Sinhawilluwatta Puttalam in March 22, 1990 * Later moved to Boyagane, Kurunegala on April 23, 1993. * 27 Battalions under command to the Regiment * First battalion of Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment established in 1988 * Operating under motto ‘What - cannot they bear, those who are adept and well versed in their arts and crafts and professions’ * Has sent a number contingents on foreign peace keeping missions

The Defence Secretary invited Army Commander Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya, architect Ranga Dayaratne and Lion G R K C Balasooriya to join him to unveil the commemorative plaque.

Secretary Rajapaksa also placed a wreath at the cenotaph.

The Defence Secretary said President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces is grateful for the services and sacrifices of fallen War Heroes, military personnel and their families and is always committed in ensuring their welfare.

Secretary Rajapaksa mentioned the various welfare measures taken including the housing projects, educational projects for the children of service personnel, vocational training programmes, granting of loans and three wheelers and also about healing homes for permanently disabled service personnel, Abimansala and Mihindu Seth Medura.

He also spoke about the monthly allowance scheme for service personnel’s parents. The Secretary also said the President has always acted to maintain the prestige of service personnel and their families and has a high regard for them which is evident by his preference to post retired military personnel to diplomatic missions.

A large number of guests including senior military officers, military personnel and family members of War Heroes were present.

Courtesy: defence.lk