Appreciations
View(s):He led from the front and paid with his life
Major Namal Mendis
We fondly remember our brother officer Namal Mendis of the 4th Battalion, Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment, who died 34 years ago on June 13, 1990, in Waripathanchena, Ampara.
As peace negotiations between the government and the LTTE broke down in 1990, LTTE militants commenced attacking police and military detachments in Ampara without warning. An intelligence communique that was circulated stated that all police stations and military units in and around Ampara would be attacked simultaneously, and that reinforcements would arrive soon.
At the time, senior military command was uncertain whether to counter-attack since a state of peace had existed till then. The military ought to have reacted fast in attacking and destroying the LTTE’s main camp in Waripathanchena, at the junction of the Kalmunai and Akkaraipattu roads. This was critical because the LTTE had strategically blocked all the supply routes to police stations and military camps located on the Kalmunai and Akkaraipattu roads, putting all those lives at risk.
Captain Namal Mendis, Adjutant of the 4th Battalion of the Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment (4SLSR) foresaw the eventuality of the military facing this type of impasse in the event the LTTE launched a surprise attack in the midst of peace negotiations. So, when he was informed of the planned attacks, he sprang into action without prevaricating or delaying. He volunteered to take command and lead an operation to attack the LTTE military base in Waripathanchena.
The operation was successful, and the LTTE fled the camp, and the Kalmunai and Akkaraipattu roads were reopened.
However, fate was unkind to Namal who was killed in action when an enemy rocket struck.
Major Namal Mendis (he was posthumously promoted), was only 25 years old when he sacrificed his life to safeguard the unity of the motherland. He was an alumnus of Nalanda College, Colombo, who showed equal passion for studies and sports. He represented the college cricket team and brought glory to both his school and his unit in the Army by leading the rugby and football teams of 4SLSR.
Namal was an honest officer who was dedicated to service, participating in numerous operations against terrorists in the North East, without any hesitation or second thoughts.
His death, was an unbearable loss not only for his parents, relatives and friends, but also for the Sinha Regiment, the Army and the country as a whole. We lost an officer who was brave, sincere, and above all, a good human being.
It was unimaginable to me, that Namal, whom I shared a room with and spoke to on the morning of June 13 was taken from us by noon. I still remember the unbearable emotions that came over me when I hugged his body, still warm and blood-soaked, which was brought to the Ampara Hospital. We had joined the Army together, trained together and served together in the same regiment. I recall how the two of us were eager to join the Sinha Regiment because we wanted to wear its unique black insignia and pips. I had the solemn privilege of preparing the Part 1 Order for Namal, my friend and brother in spirit, before we despatched his body to Colombo by helicopter.
Although there are many losses in life, the death of a good friend cannot be easily forgotten.
May he continue to rest
in peace.
Lt Col. (Retd) Modestus Fernando
A legacy of dedication and compassion
Dr. Tissa Devendra
It is with profound respect and heartfelt remembrance that we mark the first anniversary of the passing of Dr Tissa Devendra, “Seeya” (my maternal grandfather), who left us on June 14, last year, at the age of 91. His remarkable life and legacy in the field of medicine continue to inspire and resonate with many.
Born in Galle, he was the son of Inspector of Excise, Don Hendrick Devendra and Josephine Rathnavibhushana. He had two brothers and two sisters and was the fourth child in his family. He had a deep connection with family and his hometown, and would always help support and nurture the entire community. I fondly remember my childhood, where I accompanied Seeya to town on errands, mostly to buy sweets and toys.
Seeya was a man of few words. Having a quiet and calm demeanour, he made every person feel special and heard. He was a simple, humble and kind person who always encouraged everyone to treat others with respect, honesty and integrity. Although he often said mechanical and automotive engineering was his true passion, he pursued a career as a medical practitioner and left an incredible mark in the field.
Seeya was educated at Mahinda College Galle and excelled in his studies, receiving a number of awards in Pure and Applied Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. He was the only student from the South to pass the University Entrance exam in 1948 to study medicine at the University of Ceylon, Colombo – an honour for the entire region, and especially for his beloved Mahinda College. He was conferred the degree of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery on October 14, 1955 and was registered as a Medical Practitioner in December 1956.
Seeya dedicated his life to medicine, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to his patients and advancing the field through innovative work and compassionate care. Throughout a distinguished career spanning five decades, he made significant contributions. He served the Galle community in various positions from Medical Officer of Health Galle, Four Gravets, School Medical Officer, Port Health Officer, Medical Officer Thasim Chest Clinic Galle to General Practitioner. He approached each role with a determination to make a positive difference to society.
He was a skilled GP who was an advocate for evidence-based scientific medicine. Countless stories have been shared about the profound impact he had on people’s lives and the solace he provided throughout his medical career. Even after retiring, he would eagerly offer his advice and guidance whenever a person he knew fell ill. His sense of duty and devotion were unparalleled.
To me, Seeya was not just a revered physician but a person who exuded curiosity. My memories are filled with his unwavering love for restoring vintage cars, his passion for books and book-binding, his carpentry skills, his support for Sri Lankan cricket and his admiration for old Hindi and Sinhala songs. I still recall my early years when I would watch him dedicate countless hours to meticulously tinker with his cherished Datsun Bluebird in the garage, a vehicle he kept in pristine condition for over 40 years. His patience, dedication and overall attention to detail have served as an enduring inspiration for me. As the years elapsed his ability to work on a project dwindled but he would always recall the hobbies he enjoyed. This is something we will all miss.
Although Seeya had many pastimes, his true essence lay in being a family man. The bond he shared with Achchi (my maternal grandmother), Mrs Mallika Devendra, his beloved wife of 67 years, radiated a warmth that never failed to bring a smile to everyone. The deep love he held for her is a testament to the kind of connection we all aspire to have with our loved ones.
Seeya and Achchi relocated to Sydney, Australia in 2011 to be closer to their children and grandchildren. We consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have spent time with him in his final years. He is survived by his beloved wife, his daughter, son, four grandsons and great- grandson who will continue to honour him by upholding the principles he cherished. Seeya leaves a legacy of compassion, dedication and excellence that remains a guiding light for all who follow in his footsteps.
May his samsaric journey towards deliverance be short and endurable.
With deepest love and respect,
Kasun Wijayaratna (eldest grandson)
Searching for an ideal partner? Find your soul mate on Hitad.lk, Sri Lanka's favourite marriage proposals page. With Hitad.lk matrimonial advertisements you have access to thousands of ads from potential suitors who are looking for someone just like you.