May 19, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka will today (19) hold its annual National War Heroes’ Commemoration Ceremony to mark 17 years since the end of the country’s armed conflict and the defeat of terrorism.
The event is set to take place at the National War Heroes’ Memorial in Battaramulla under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, with senior government officials, members of the armed forces and families of fallen servicemen expected to attend.
According to the Ranaviruseva Authority, this year’s ceremony carries added significance as it will, for the first time, include the participation of relatives of deceased military personnel from the Northern and Eastern provinces. Officials described the move as an effort to promote greater national unity and recognition of the sacrifices made by members of the security forces from all parts of the country.
The commemorative event will include military honours, religious observances and floral tributes in remembrance of those who lost their lives during the decades-long conflict. Security arrangements have also been strengthened around the venue ahead of the ceremony.