The 58 Division troops celebrated the 61st Independence Day, during a simple ceremony organized in the recently liberated Pooneryn Town, in Kilinochchi today (Feb 4). The event was organized simultaneously with the official Independence Day ceremony in Colombo. Brigadier Shavendra Silva, the 58 Division Commander, hoisted the national flag at the event, followed by a guard of honour and an inspection parade. The valiant troops who sacrificed their lives and limbs for the freedom of their brethren were also commemorated and honoured with a minute's silence of respect. A few officers and soldiers of the 58 Division were also present at the event.

During his speech, the 58 Div commander emphasized the need for conscious and concentrated efforts to free the civilians held by the LTTE, also underscoring the necessity to improve the living status and welfare of the displaced people in the Wanni and North.

Subsequent to the main event, the 58 Division troops declared open a 'Peace Park' for the civilians now settling in Pooneryn. "On behalf of the peace loving people of Pooneryn, to mark the event of rescuing innocent civilians in Pooneryn from the clutches of LTTE", the cornerstone read.

Courtesy: Defence.lk