01st June 2025 22:18:59 Hours
The 17 anniversary of the 61 Infantry Division was celebrated with pride on 30 May 2025 at the Division Headquarters, Boossa, under the guidance of the General Officer Commanding, Major General KTP De Silva RSP ndu psc.
In parallel to the anniversary day, a lunch was served on 28 May 2025 for 50 inmates of the Galle Sambodhi orphanage, who are with intellectual and physical disabilities. A community service program was also carried out to clean the buildings and the surrounding area on 27 May 2025 with the labor contribution of the troops.
On 29 May, final match of the Softball Cricket Tournament, which was held with the aim of promoting camaraderie between the 61 Infantry Division HQ and all its under command Brigades and units was held between the 20 SLLI team and the 18 SLNG team. The 18 SLNG team won the championship after a thrilling competition, defeating the 20 SLLI team. Subsequently, in the evening, a special Bodhi Pooja was held and blessed the Division and all its troops.
On the anniversary day on 30 May, the troops, in accordance with military formalities, honoured the General Officer Commanding with a guard of honour and a magnificent parade consisting of 13 officers and 255 other ranks. Thereafter, the General Officer Commanding, addressing all ranks, appreciated the immense service rendered and being rendered by all ranks and commended the troops who are working tirelessly for disaster relief efforts.
Later, Commemorating the 17 anniversary, the General Officer Commanding planted a sapling in the camp premises and posed for a group photograph with officers and other ranks and it was followed by all rank tea party. As the final event of the anniversary programme a musical event was held and given the opportunity to enjoy the evening to all ranks.
