Once the voice of the Army, he was admired for his skills

Major General P. S. P. (Sarath) Munasinghe passed away on March 17, five years ago. The dedicated Army officer received plaudits during his lifetime for having been conscientious and proficient in the discharge of his duties. He worked with distinction and enthusiasm. His management skills and practical approach won him the admiration of his superiors and subordinates.

On February 5, 1970, Major General Munasinghe RWP RSP USP joined the Regular Force of the Sri Lanka Army as an Officer Cadet. After completing his training at the Sri Lanka Military Academy in Diyatalawa, he was commissioned into the 4th Regiment of the Sri Lanka Artillery Corps as a Second Lieutenant.

During his illustrious career, he served as Security Forces Commander (Jaffna). He held several operational and non-operational appointments. Among these were Adjutant, General Staff Officer, Intelligence Officer, Battery Commander and Deputy Commandant of the Army Training School. He was Commanding Officer of the Artillery Corps 6th Regiment, Military Assistant to the Commander and Director Media, Army Headquarters. He also commanded several Brigades across many districts.

Major General Munasinghe qualified at various levels of command through national and international courses. He received the Republic of Sri Lanka Armed Services Medal in 1972, Sri Lanka Army 25th Anniversary Median in 1974 and the President’s Inauguration Medal in 1979. He was decorated for his gallantry with the Rana Wickrama Padakkama and Rana Sura Padakkama, and for his services the Uththama Seva Padakkama.

He retired in March 2000 after serving the Army for 30 years. In the same year, he was elected to Parliament from the Kurunegala District on the People’s Alliance ticket. He served as Deputy Speaker. May his soul attain Nibbana!

A friend