In a significant shift from tradition, this year’s National War Heroes’ Day ceremony on May 19, marking the 16th anniversary of Sri Lanka’s victory over the LTTE, will not be presided over by the President. Instead, Deputy Defense Minister Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd.) will lead the official proceedings at the National War Heroes’ Memorial in Kotte, Sri Jayewardenepura.
The decision was confirmed during a media briefing held at the Ministry of Defense on May 16. The solemn event will take place from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM and will feature a ceremonial tribute in accordance with military customs, including floral offerings and salutes. The ceremony will also include the participation of war veterans and family members of fallen soldiers.
Several prominent figures from Sri Lanka’s military history, including Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka who commanded the Tri-Forces during the decisive final phase of the war Admiral of the Fleet Wasantha Karannagoda, and Marshal of the Air Force Roshan Gunathilaka, are expected to attend.
The media briefing was chaired by Secretary of Defense Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuiyakontha (Retd.), who opened with a tribute to all members of the Tri-Forces, Police, and Civil Defense who made the ultimate sacrifice during the country’s decades-long conflict. He emphasized the national importance of continuing this annual commemoration, both to honor the fallen and to inspire future generations with the legacy of sacrifice, patriotism, and duty demonstrated by Sri Lanka’s war heroes.
Alongside the main ceremony in Kotte, the Ministry of Defence announced that a series of community welfare programs would be carried out across the island. These initiatives, executed in collaboration with the Tri-Forces, Police Department, and Civil Defense Force, aim to strengthen bonds between the military and the civilian population while honoring the spirit of service.
Senior officers from the War Heroes Service Authority and representatives from all three military branches provided further details about the ceremony during the briefing. The event, they noted, will reflect the gratitude of an entire nation to those who risked and gave their lives to defend its sovereignty.
The Ministry urged all Sri Lankans to join in remembrance on this national day, to celebrate the valiant service of the men and women who played a decisive role in defeating terrorism and preserving the unity of the nation.
Also present at the press briefing were the Navy and Air Force Commanders, the Chief of Army Staff, senior defense officials, and members of both the electronic and print media.
