11th General Deshamanya Dennis Perera Oration

11th General Deshamanya Dennis Perera Oration “Honour, Duty, and Country: The Evolution of Military Leadership in a Changing World”

The GDDP Memorial Oration, held on 11th August 2025 in honour of the late General Deshamanya Denis Perera, brought together a distinguished gathering of military leaders, dignitaries, and well-wishers at the KDU Faculty of Graduate Studies Auditorium. The oration was delivered by Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo, the 25th Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, on the compelling theme “Honour, Duty, and Country: The Evolution of Military Leadership in a Changing World.”

Lieutenant General Rodrigo’s address captivated the audience with its depth, clarity, and relevance to both the proud traditions and the evolving challenges of military leadership. He eloquently traced the journey of leadership in the armed forces—highlighting how timeless values of honour and duty form the bedrock of military service, while also emphasising the need to adapt to the shifting dynamics of modern conflict, emerging technologies, and the global security environment. The topic resonated deeply with the audience, sparking thoughtful reflection on how the principles of service, sacrifice, and integrity remain steadfast even as the nature of leadership continues to evolve.

The event was graced by Mrs. Ranjini Perera, wife of the late General together with his three sons and attended by many prominent figures, including Deputy Minister of Defence Major General K.P.A. Jayasekara WWV, RSP, VSV, USP, ndc, psc, Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral B.A.K.S.P. Banagoda RSP USP ndc psc and Vice Chancellor of KDU, Rear Admiral Dammika Kumara. Past Commanders of the three services—General G.H. de Silva, General C.S. Weerasooriya, General S.H.S. Kottegoda, General R.M.D. Rathnayake, Admiral D.W.K. Sandagiri, Admiral S.M.A.J. Perera, Admiral R.C. Wijegunaratne, Admiral U.V.M.P. Perera, and Air Chief Marshal G.P. Bulathsinghala—were in attendance, along with Past Presidents of ARFRO and approximately ninety five of its members. The diplomatic community was represented by H.E. Dr. Purna Bahdur Nepali, the Ambassador to Nepal and the Defence Attaché of the US Embassy. The OPA was represented by its President and Secretary.

A moment of reflection was observed as attendees were reminded of the late General Denis Perera’s monumental contribution to the establishment of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU). His vision and leadership transformed the then ‘Kandawala Estate’ into Sri Lanka’s premier defence university, which continues to produce generations of officers who serve with distinction.

The ceremonial procession to the stage included Past Presidents of ARFRO— General G H de Silva,General Srilal Weerasooriya, Major General Lohan Gunawardena, and Rear Admiral Sarath Rathnakeerthi—along with the two Vice Presidents, Major General Susil Chandrapala and Rear Admiral A.V. Abeyasena; Chairman of the Organising Committee, Air Vice Marshal Kishan Yahampath; ARFRO Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Janak Wanigatunge; and was completed by the current President, Air Chief Marshal Gagan Bulathsinghala, who accompanied the Orator.

Air Vice Marshal Andrew Wijesuriya, serving as the Master of Ceremonies, guided the proceedings with poise and professionalism, ensuring the programme flowed seamlessly while maintaining both dignity and engagement throughout the evening.

The evening was a fitting tribute to a legendary military leader, combining heartfelt remembrance with thought-provoking discourse that left an indelible impression on all present.