2020 Apr 6
“The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing” – these are famous words belonging to none other than Albert Einstein. Commending the individuals who do not hesitate to put their lives on the line for their country, the helpless and anyone in need. We, as Sri Lankans, have been blessed with over 250,000 of such do-or-die individuals enlisted in the country’s Tri Forces of Army, Navy and Air force. Without a doubt, everyone remembers and respects these men and women for ending the gruesome 30-year civil war. However, their toil did not end with the war; here’s a reminder of all the times the Tri Forces have stepped up when Sri Lanka needed them.
EASTER TERRORIST ATTACKS 2019
With the series of explosions that shook Sri Lanka on the 21st of April 2019, a state of emergency was declared across the nation which enabled military forces to regain control of the situation in the country by conducting search operations, recovering detonators and diffusing explosives around the country. This was the worst terrorist attack the island had seen since the civil war, and the forces were quick to respond to their call of duty, patrolling the streets to safeguard the country and its people from any further acts of extremism.
COVID-19 PANDEMIC 2020
With the outbreak of the global pandemic in Sri Lanka, the armed forces of Sri Lanka have undertaken the responsibility to oversee the improvisation and operation of quarantine centres in the island, minimising the risk of unnecessary civilian exposure to the virus. As of Friday, 3rd April 2020, navy personnel commenced the development of the Neville Fernando hospital for the testing of blood and saliva. Troops also played a vital role in the upkeep of curfews by continuously monitoring the streets. In addition to their official duties, we have seen soldiers fulfilling their humanitarian duties as well, by providing meals to the homeless, delivering of essential goods to those unable to leave their homes and even feeding helpless street dogs out of the goodness of their hearts!
FLOOD RELIEF
Sri Lanka has seen her fair share of floods, in various magnitudes, all over the island. However, one thing that all severe floods had in common, was the immediate relief that was provided by the country’s army, navy and air force. From rescue operations via trawlers and helicopters, to providing shelter and meals to victims, to road clearance and bridge reconstruction, Tri Force soldiers were once again at the frontline.
FIGHTING DROUGHTS
Areas most affected by scorching heat led to a shortage of water in many parts of the island. The provinces worst affected were the north and east, mainly due to the poor development as a result of the war’s aftermath. In addition to providing families in these areas with dry rations, water bottles, sweetmeats and vegetables, the army troops in Jaffna also provided machinery and selfless manpower for the renovation of the Valavilkulam tank in 2018. After remarkable efforts from the troops, the tank is now capable of retaining more water to aid drought relief in the area.
RESCUE SERVICES
Rescuing drowning citizens in lakes and fishermen with capsized boats at sea is nothing new to the Sri Lankan Navy. However, in 2017 the navy was faced with a rescue mission that challenged them in new ways – elephants washed out to sea. Regardless of the victim, the navy was quick to respond. Aiming to preserve the biodiversity of the island, troops rushed out to sea where divers were able to rope them to be towed back to safety.
POST CIVIL WAR REHABILITATION
Under the leadership of His Excellency the President, the troops firmly believed that terrorists were also human beings who lost their war and had their minds corrupted. Therefore, with the complete eradication of terrorism in the island, the troops laid down their arms and did not hesitate to set up rehabilitation centres for war refugees and ex combatants. Upon commission of these establishments, security, water, food, sanitation and all health and psycho-social support were also provided by personnels from the Tri Forces.
UN MISSIONS
Sri Lanka was involved in its first-ever overseas peacekeeping mission in 1960 and is now a member of the United Nations Special Committee on Peace Keeping Operations. Currently named one of the highest Troop Contributing Countries to the committee, officers from the Sri Lankan Tri Forces have put all humanity first, regardless of which part of the world they are from. Their strong hearts have not only served their motherland but have also aided missions in the Central African Republic, Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Haiti, Lebanon, Liberia, South Sudan, Timor and Western Sahara.
With their motto “Pro Patria” meaning Country First, the Tri Forces of Sri Lanka have outdone their duty to their motherland, putting their lives on the line on multiple occasions. What we fail to realise, is that the individuals serving in the troops are human too – with a home, family and dreams just like every one of us. Even though they do not expect anything in return, we will always be in their debt. The least we can do is fully appreciate and support all that they do and stand proud of the Tri-Force troops Sri Lanka has been blessed with!
