December 30, Colombo (LNW): General Shavendra Silva is set to retire from his role as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and from active duty in the Sri Lanka Army on January 01, 2025.
Appointed as the 8th CDS of Sri Lanka on June 01, 2022, General Silva has built an extraordinary career spanning more than 40 years, marked by remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to his country.
Throughout his tenure in the military, he served with distinction in numerous high-ranking positions, culminating in his leadership of the country’s armed forces.
Before assuming the position of Chief of Defence Staff, General Silva served as the Acting CDS and the 23rd Commander of the Sri Lanka Army. He was the first officer in Sri Lanka’s military history to hold the rank of four-star General and command the Army, a role he took on with great responsibility and commitment.
His career trajectory, beginning as a Second Lieutenant and ascending steadily through the ranks, exemplifies a model of military leadership and dedication.
During his career, General Silva held several key positions, including Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army, Colonel of the Regiment for the Gajaba Regiment, and leader of the Special Forces and Commando Regiments, two of the most elite units within the Army.
His strategic acumen was also recognised in his roles as Adjutant General and Director General of Operations at the Army Headquarters.
A seasoned and battle-hardened Infantry Officer, General Silva is best known for his leadership during the final stages of the civil war in Sri Lanka. He commanded the Air Mobile Brigade and led the 58 Division, which, under his guidance, played a pivotal role in the Wanni Humanitarian Operation.
This operation ultimately brought an end to the 30-year-long civil conflict in 2009, securing a hard-earned peace for the nation. His leadership in this operation remains a cornerstone of his military legacy.
Following the conclusion of the war, General Silva achieved a historic milestone, becoming the youngest officer in Sri Lanka’s military history to be promoted to the rank of Major General.
He went on to command the 53 Division, widely recognised as the Reserve Strike Force (RSF), further solidifying his reputation as one of the most accomplished military leaders in the country.
Over the years, General Silva has earned numerous accolades for his bravery and outstanding service. He is the recipient of an exceptional number of gallantry awards, including the Weera Wickrama Vibushanaya (WWV), Rana Wickrama Padakkama (RWP), and Rana Soora Padakkama (RSP) – making him the only officer in the history of the Sri Lankan Armed Forces to receive three distinct gallantry medals in a single ceremony.
His contributions to the country’s defence are further recognised by the Vishishta Seva Vibhushanaya (VSV) and the Uththama Seva Padakkama (USP), which he received in honour of his exemplary service.
