06th June 2025 18:50:39 Hours
Major General Lanka Amarapala RWP RSP ndc psc, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army and Colonel Commandant of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers, conducted an official visit to the 1 Field Engineer Regiment, Panagoda, on Friday, 06th June 2025. This visit carried special historical significance, as Major General Lanka Amarapala’s father Captain A H Amarapala (Retd) SLE was a proud member of the inaugural batch of 34 other ranks who laid the foundation of the 1 Field Engineer Regiment in 1951. This unique legacy of service and dedication across two generations was deeply felt and reverently acknowledged during the visit.
The day’s proceedings commenced with a ceremonial Guard Turnout accorded to the Colonel Commandant, upon the arrival at the Main Entrance by troops of the regiment and warmly welcomed by Lieutenant Colonel D W G I D Somakeerthi USP psc SLE, Commanding Officer of 1 Field Engineer Regiment, followed by posed for a group photograph to commemorate the occasion. As part of the scheduled programme, the Commanding Officer delivered a comprehensive briefing, covering key aspects of the unit’s operational responsibilities, ongoing development projects, and administrative matters.
By continuing the official programme, the Colonel Commandant addressed the troops and he emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline, professionalism, and operational readiness. He also urged troops to abstain from illegal and drug related activities. Commending their dedication and resilience, he acknowledged the regiment’s vital contributions to both military operations and national development. Furthermore, he elaborated on the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ Initiative launched by the Sri Lankan Government, underscoring the responsibility of every military personnel to actively contribute to this national effort. Following his inspirational address, Major General Lanka Amarapala engaged in a cordial interaction with officers and other ranks during the all ranks tea, fostering camaraderie and mutual respect.
The official visit concluded with the signing of the Visitors’ Book, where Major General Lanka Amarapala included a special personal note, reflecting on the historic significance of his visit to this prestigious regiment closely tied to his own legacy. In his message, he conveyed his deep appreciation for the high standards, professionalism, and traditions upheld by the 1 Field Engineer Regiment honouring both past and present generations of Sappers.
