ANANDA COLLEGE FELICITATES THE COMMANDER OF THE AIR FORCE
3:31pm on Monday 17th July 2023
In keeping with the tradition of recognizing those who have achieved the highest degree of recognition and achievement in society, Ananda College - Colombo paid its highest tribute to the newly appointed 19th Commander of the Air Force and its alumnus, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, at the College premises today (17 July 2023).
The ceremony was marked by splendid pageantry, involving current students and staff members of Ananda College. The College's Cub Scouts and Scouts greeted Air Marshal Rajapaksa with enthusiastic cheer and a solemn pole salute. The Commander was accorded the Guard of Hounour by the Cadet Platoon and the Cadet Band, heralding the parade. Notably, a distinguished gathering of past Anandians participated in full strength, adding to the grandeur of the event. In remembrance of fallen War Heroes from Ananda College, the Commander paid homage by offering a floral tribute at the War Heroes' Monument, located within the college premises.
Subsequently, the Commander was accompanied to the Kularathna Hall in a colourful procession by traditional Wes Dancers. The felicitation ceremony was inaugurated with a warm welcome speech delivered by Mr. Lal Dissanayake, the present principal of Ananda College. He emphasized the historical legacy of Ananda College, which produces noble sons who serve the country in prestigious positions. Further stated that, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, is one who excelled in both academics and extracurricular pursuits during his time at the college and has now risen to the highest position within the Air Force, serves as a source of immense pride and inspiration for his alma mater.
In his response, Air Marshal Rajapaksa graciously acknowledged that his accomplishments were attributed to the expertise and experiences he gained at his beloved Ananda College. Speaking directly to the present Anandians, he emphasized that the strong foundation he received during his secondary education at Ananda College paved the way for his appointment as the 19th Commander of the Air Force. The Commander also expressed deep gratitude to all the teachers who had served during his time at Ananda College.
Following the Commander's inspirational speech, he was honoured with the prestigious "Anadabhinandana" special token of appreciation by the College's Principal. This significant moment took place in the presence of Ananda College alumnus, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Guneratne (Retd) and the President of the Old Boys Association.
The distinguished ceremony was attended by notable individuals, including the former Speaker of the Parliament and renowned politician, Hon. Karu Jayasuriya, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Guneratne (Retd), Tri-Services old Anandians, teachers and students.
The ceremony was marked by splendid pageantry, involving current students and staff members of Ananda College. The College's Cub Scouts and Scouts greeted Air Marshal Rajapaksa with enthusiastic cheer and a solemn pole salute. The Commander was accorded the Guard of Hounour by the Cadet Platoon and the Cadet Band, heralding the parade. Notably, a distinguished gathering of past Anandians participated in full strength, adding to the grandeur of the event. In remembrance of fallen War Heroes from Ananda College, the Commander paid homage by offering a floral tribute at the War Heroes' Monument, located within the college premises.
Subsequently, the Commander was accompanied to the Kularathna Hall in a colourful procession by traditional Wes Dancers. The felicitation ceremony was inaugurated with a warm welcome speech delivered by Mr. Lal Dissanayake, the present principal of Ananda College. He emphasized the historical legacy of Ananda College, which produces noble sons who serve the country in prestigious positions. Further stated that, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, is one who excelled in both academics and extracurricular pursuits during his time at the college and has now risen to the highest position within the Air Force, serves as a source of immense pride and inspiration for his alma mater.
In his response, Air Marshal Rajapaksa graciously acknowledged that his accomplishments were attributed to the expertise and experiences he gained at his beloved Ananda College. Speaking directly to the present Anandians, he emphasized that the strong foundation he received during his secondary education at Ananda College paved the way for his appointment as the 19th Commander of the Air Force. The Commander also expressed deep gratitude to all the teachers who had served during his time at Ananda College.
Following the Commander's inspirational speech, he was honoured with the prestigious "Anadabhinandana" special token of appreciation by the College's Principal. This significant moment took place in the presence of Ananda College alumnus, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Guneratne (Retd) and the President of the Old Boys Association.
The distinguished ceremony was attended by notable individuals, including the former Speaker of the Parliament and renowned politician, Hon. Karu Jayasuriya, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Guneratne (Retd), Tri-Services old Anandians, teachers and students.
