http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=VIR_Heroes_remembered_20121103_05

VIR Heroes remembered

Secretary Defence declares open Ranaviru Monument at VIR Headquarters

Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa inveiled a Ranaviru Monument (Cenotaph) built in memory of the valient War Heroes of the the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment (VIR) of the Sri Lanka Army who made the supreme sacrife during the humanitarian operations today (03rd November 2012).

The ceremony was held at the VIR Headquarters in Boyagane in Kurunegala. The Cenotaph is built in memory of the 3050 valient officers and other ranks who laid down their lives to safeguard the nation against LTTE terrorism.

The Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment is named after one of Sri Lanka's greatest rulers, King Vijayabahu I who ruled Sri Lanka from 1055 AD to 1110 AD. This iconic king also known as Keerthi Kumaraya was a brave and intelligent patriot who governed the Island under one rule. The VIR was formed in order to enhance the service and strength the capabilities of Sri Lanka Army at Sinhawilluwatta Puttalam in 22 March 1990. Due to operational requirements it was later moved to the current site in Boyagane in Kurunegala on 23rd April 1993. There are 27 Battalions under command to the Regiment today.

The first battalion of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment was established in 1988. Presently among the VIR battalions there are 17 Regular Battalions, 9 Volunteer Battalions and Headquarter battalion.

Operating under the motto "What - cannot they bear, those who are adept and well versed in their arts and crafts and professions"- the VIR was in the forefront in the fight against terrorism. It has sent a number contingents on foreign peace keeping missions including Lebanon and Haiti.

The Regimental Commander Major General RV Samaratunga paid tribute to the 135 officers and 2915 other ranks of the VIR heroes during his welcome address. Secretary Defence invited the Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya, architect Ranga Dayaratne and Lion GRKC Balasooriya to join him to unveil the commemorative plaque. Secretary Defence also placed a wreath at the Cenotaph.

Speaking at the ceremony Secretary Defence said that His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaks as the Commander in Chief of the armed forces is ever grateful to the services and sacrifices of the fallen war heroes, military personel and their families and is always committed in ensuring the welfare of them.

The Secretary 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 the healing homes for the permanently disabled service personnel ,Abimansala and Mihindu Seth Medura. He also mentioned about the monthly allowance scheme for the parents of service personnel.

He also noted that the President has always acted to maintain the prestige of the service personnel and their families and has a high regard for them which is amply evident by his preference to post retired military personnel to diplomatic mission.

A large number of guests includig senior military officers, military personnel and family members of the fallen heroes were present at the occassion.