Deputy Minister of Defence Visits Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen's
Association and Bolagala Veterans' Home
July 13, 2025
Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) undertook a formal visit to the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen's Association (SLESA) and the Bolagala Veterans' Home yesterday (Jul 12), underscoring the government's continued commitment to the welfare of retired military personnel.
Upon arrival, the Deputy Minister was received with high regard by the Chairman of the SLESA, Lieutenant Colonel Ajith Siyambalapitiya (Retd). The delegation then proceeded to tour the Veterans' Home, where Deputy Minister engaged in a cordial chat with war heroes. During the interaction, he inquired into their wellbeing and fostered a spirit of camaraderie with the veterans.
Following this, the Deputy Minister visited the proposed site designated for an upcoming cultivation project, to be carried out through the labour contribution of retired personnel. He provided operational directives to the project officers, emphasizing the importance of executing the initiative expeditiously and with adherence to established standards.
In a subsequent high-level meeting convened between Major General Jayasekara (Retd) and the Board of Officers, war heroes and staff residing at the Veterans' Home articulated their current challenges. The Deputy Minister issued instructions for the formulation of a structured mechanism to address and resolve the issues raised.
Concluding the visit, Major General Jayasekara (Retd) delivered a formal address to the Executive Committee of the SLESA, along with chairpersons, secretaries, and sub-committee heads of affiliated associations. He reaffirmed the government’s recognition of the invaluable service rendered by retired war heroes and assured that the Ministry of Defense remains steadfast in its efforts to enhance their welfare.
The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Defense, representatives from the SLESA and distinguished officers from the tri-services, reflecting a united front in supporting Sri Lanka’s veteran community.
