15th Contingent of SLFPC Salutes Commander of the Army Before UNIFIL Mission
March 02, 2024The 15th contingent of the Sri Lanka Force Protection Company (SLFPC) is set to embark on their peacekeeping mission under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). They presented a ceremonial salute to Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, Commander of the Army, at the parade ground of Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment on Friday (01 March).
The day’s Chief Guest, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage was warmly welcomed by Major General S.R.B Aluvihare RWP RSP ndu psc, the Commander, Security Forces - Central and Colonel of the Regiment of Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment (VIR). Then, the Army Chief was invited to receive the Guard Turnout at the entrance, presented by VIR troops as a formality upon his arrival. Following the formalities, the Chief Guest reviewed the ceremonial parade.
Symbolizing the readiness of the SLFPC contingent for the UN mission, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage handed over the National flag, United Nations flag, Army flag and the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment flag to SLFPC Contingent Commander as part of the formalities.
The 15th SLFPC contingent is composed of 125 Army personnel, including 11 Officers and 114 Other Ranks from the Corps and Regiments of the Army. It is commanded by Lieutenant Colonel D.K.D Vithanage RSP and Major H.M.W.C Bandara USP serves as the Second in Command.
The Army Chief, soon after the ceremonial parade, addressed the contingent and highlighted the significance of the overseas assignments to the country and the Sri Lanka Army and how the Sri Lankan contingent in the UNIFIL has become a prominent force. Then, the troops of 15 SLFPC posed for a group photo with the Army Chief before customary all ranks tea.
At the end of the day’s proceedings, the Colonel of the Regiment of VIR presented a special memento to the Commander of the Army before he noted down a few compliments in the VIR visitors' book.
The 14th contingent of the Sri Lanka Force Protection Company upon completion of their tenure is expected to return to Sri Lanka soon after the 15th SLFPC contingent takes over their duties on 17 March 2024.
Major General S.P.A.I.M.B Samarakoon Hdmc Lsc, Deputy Chief of Staff, Senior Officers, Officers, Other Ranks and families of the contingent troops witnessed the parade.
Courtesy - www.army.lk