Sri Lanka commemorated its 81st Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Poppy Flower Ceremony on 16th November, at the Cenotaph War Memorial in Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo.
Organized by the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association in partnership with the Armed Forces, the annual event honored the service and sacrifice of Sri Lankan military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya attended as Chief Guest, while Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), and Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), participated as Guests of Honour.
The Prime Minister was welcomed by Lieutenant Colonel Ajith Siyambalapitiya (Retd), President of the Ex-Servicemen’s Association, upon arrival.
The ceremony began with religious observances followed by a two-minute silence in remembrance of fallen heroes. Floral tributes were laid at the Cenotaph by the Prime Minister, dignitaries, military officials, and representatives of the Ex-Servicemen’s Association, symbolizing national gratitude for their sacrifice.
Senior military leaders, foreign envoys, Defence Ministry officials, members of the Tri-Forces, and families of fallen service members were among those in attendance.
