We should save our future generations from terrorism - Secretary
Defence
Nalanda College, Colombo, paid tribute to old-Nalandians
who had laid their lives during the past three decades in the battle
against terrorism, at a War Hero commemoration event held at the College
auditorium yesterday (August 02). The event was organized by the Old
Boys Association of the Nalanda College.
This was the 8th War Hero commemoration organized at
the College since 2002, in tribute for past Naladians both military and
Police. Addressing a large gathering the Chief Guest, Secretary Defence
Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, paid gratitude for 41 Naladians for their
sacrifices made to save mother Lanka. Awards of Honor were also handed
over for disabled Nalandians in tribute for the active service rendered.
"On 02nd of August 2002, when the Nalanda Old Boys
Association first took into organizing a war hero commemoration, all
hopes of defeating terrorism militarily were blown away from this
country. Both people and leaders of this nation were skeptic of
defeating the LTTE, yet Nalanda College against all odds led the way
organizing religious events and commemorations for those at the
forefront", said Secretary Defence. The students, teachers and the Old
Boys Association of Nalanda College should be commended for such
initiative, he said.
"41 war heroes from Nalanda have sacrificed their
lives. This alma-mater has gifted mother Lanka with great sons in every
profession. These heroes are not only serving in the military and police
but also serving the mother Lanka and the entire world in the betterment
of mankind", he further said.
"For thirty years national leaders and governments of
this country failed to end the scourge of LTTE terrorism, and President
Mahinda Rajapaksa led this country to this ultimate feat and what more
he is also a product of Nalanda", Secretary Defence said.
"Today Nalanda has produced many gallant men for both
the services and Police, including 92 Army Officers, 52 naval officers,
49 Air Force officers and 60 Police personnel. Over 25,000 brave men had
laid their lives during the past three decades, while 5,000 were
permanently disabled. Meanwhile, 6,000 military personnel have laid
their lives since the launch of the humanitarian operations, while
20,000 sustained injuries, Secretary Defence said.
"We should teach our youth and our children to love
this country and make every effort to preserve the glory won by the
valiant efforts of our gallant men and women. We should also save our
future generations from terrorism", he further asserted.
Chief incumbent of the Kotte Nagavihara, Ven.
Maduluwawe Sobitha, Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka, the
tri-services Commanders and many distinguished guests were present at
the occasion.
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