National Cadet Corps celebrates 143rd Anniversary
April 29, 2024The National Cadet Corps (NCC) which inherits a long and proud history, celebrated its 143rd anniversary at the National Cadet Corps Training Centre, Rantambe recently.
The NCC which was commenced in 1881 at Royal College, Colombo by the then Principal John B. Cull, as a single cadet platoon with the motto 'Discipline through Drill' has come a long way rendering a great national service by grooming school students to be future leaders and disciplined citizens. Many cadets who later became leaders of our nation have defended the territorial integrity, unity and sovereignty of the motherland at the cost of their own lives and limbs.
In recognition of this yeoman service rendered to the nation, the NCC was awarded the President's and Corps Colours by Hon President Ranil Wickremesinghe in 2023.
The NCC Director, Brigadier Sudantha Fonseka and all Ranks gathered at the NCC Training Centre, Rantambe for the anniversary celebration.
Preceding the final ceremony, a flag blessing ceremony was held with the participation of the Maha Sanga at the Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara in the presence of the Director giving prominence to traditional rituals on April 28.
On 29 April, the NCC Director was accorded a Guard of Honour by the cadets and was followed by a tree planting ceremony.
Subsequently, floral tributes were made at the monument of 'Unknown Cadet' at the Training Centre by the Director and all ranks.