News
New identity in life after military
New uniforms have been introduced for retirees and veterans of the tri-services to recognise their status in life after military service.
The uniforms can be worn at national and service-oriented events and also non-military functions.
Ex-officers in new uniform taking part at the Independence Day parade
They were introduced on Independence Day at the Colombo Defence Services College auditorium, at a ceremony where General (retd) Kamal Gunaratna, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, and Secretary of the State Ministry of National Security, Home Affairs and Disaster Management, was chief guest.
All Ranks registered with the Sri Lanka Ex-servicemen’s Association (SLESA) are eligible to wear the new uniform. They include retired tri-services commanders, retired veterans of all ranks, those categorized as medically boarded out ones (10-12 years of service), those serving foreign missions, or those who have been recalled for active duty on special requirements, the military said.
Spouses, or next of kin, of all fallen war heroes or those killed in action in battle, are also eligible to wear the medal bar, together with the national dress, saree or the shirt/trousers/blazer or so according to procedures, rules and regulations.
The chairman of SLESA, Major General (retd) Upul Perera reminded those gathered of the significance of the new uniform to veterans and retirees, while Gen (retd) Gunaratne presented berets to a select few.
Next of kin of fallen war heroes are entitled to wear the medals on the right-side of their chest, along with the recommended dress.