News Today: President’s Powerful Tribute at War Heroes Ceremony

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, delivering the keynote speech at the 16th National War Heroes’ Commemoration Ceremony, emphasized that the event was not just about marking the end of a decades-long war, but a call to action for unity, reconciliation, and peace in Sri Lanka. The commemoration was held yesterday at the War Heroes’ Memorial in Battaramulla, conducted with solemn dignity and pride under the President’s patronage.

In his address, the President underscored the importance of honoring the sacrifices made by the armed forces and their families by building a nation where all communities—Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim, Burgher, and Malay—live together in brotherhood and harmony.

“To the parents and wives of our fallen war heroes, I say this; you have made tremendous sacrifices, giving up your children and husbands to bring peace to this homeland. You are remarkable mothers and exceptional wives,” he said. “What should be the genuine result of that sacrifice? The highest form of justice we can provide for your child, husband, friend or relative is to create enduring peace in this nation.”

The President emphasized that standing before the memorial should serve not only as a moment of remembrance but as a solemn pledge—a promise to never allow conflict to rise again and to work toward a society based on love and unity, rather than division and hatred.

He reminded attendees that the war, which ended 16 years ago, left a deep scar on the nation and its people. “For decades, we endured the horrors of war. Let this remembrance not be in vain but ignite a national consciousness to protect peace.”