War leaves behind many scars. To some soldiers who defended our nation the violent trauma of the battlefield is a present everyday memory. Yet, life moves us all, and these men march forward with hope. Three differently-abled War Heroes of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment (VIR), who sustained physical injury during the assault against terrorists, entered matrimonial bliss at the ‘The Salute’ Reception Hall at Boyagane, Kurunegala on October 24 in a combined wedding ceremony, hosted by Siyaneve Api, a forum of entrepreneurs based in Gampaha .
The three couples were a testament to what true love is and what it means to be faithful in all circumstances. Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake, Commander of the Army, as Chief Guest on this jubilant occasion was the attesting witness for the marriage registration on behalf of all three bridegrooms, together with Brigadier Chandana Gunewardena of Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment.
The glittering joint wedding ceremony of Sergeant B.G.S.K Nandasiri of 8 VIR, Corporal G.D.T.B.S.K Chamikara of 6 VIR and Corporal M.P Premasiri of 4 VIR are residents under rehabilitation at ‘Abimansala I’, ‘Abimansala II’ and VIR Regimental Headquarters, Boyagane.
Bridegrooms, Sergeant B.G.S.K Nandasiri of 8 VIR, sustained injuries during a head-on encounter of terrorists in Nagarkovil and became physically disabled. His disability however did not hinder his enduring romance with Nishanthi Madushani. He is still undergoing treatment at the ‘Abimansala 1’ wellness resort at Anuradhapura.
Corporal G.D.T.B.S.K Chamikara of 6 VIR who also sustained critical injuries during a fierce battle in Puthumathalan has been under rehabilitation at ‘Abimansala 2’ for several years. His bride, Disna Probodani from Matugama was introduced to him via a proposal.
Corporal M.P Premasiri of 4 VIR chose Chandima Hemalatha Ranathunga from Morakewa as his fiancée before he was injured in the final confrontation at Puthukkudiyirippu. He has been serving at the Headquarters battalion of the Vijyabahu Infantry Regiment. The three couples have shown the nation the spirit of Sri Lankan resilience and love.
Major General Piyal Wickramaratne, Director General- Generals Staff, Major General Shavendra Silva, Adjutant General, Brigadier S.K. Thirunavukarasu, Director Rehabilitation, officers and other ranks participated at this spectacular wedding.