"Sri Lankans in the country would not fail to remember for generations the sacrifices and heroic deeds, performed by War Heroes for defence of the country's territorial integrity and unitary nature, particularly in the past three years. Equally, gruesome experiences and LTTE atrocities we underwent over past 30 years are enormous," so said Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka, Commander of the Army during a special award of scholarships, held Tuesday (28) morning at Army Headquarters.

It was held to give away one hundred Seva Vanitha Army Branch (SVAB) organized scholarships to sons and daughters of War Heroes. Sri Lankans, domiciled in Italy have sponsored the award of those scholarships under the SVAB initiated scholarship scheme.

Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka gracing the occasion as Chief Guest further remarked if not for the commitment, dedication and sacrifices of the valiant troops, all of us would have been denied the right of living any longer in a unitary Sri Lanka, although some mouthpieces from Colombo talk high of heroic deeds on behalf of the country.

The scholarship recipients are to receive Rs.1000 each month for their education until completion of their higher studies. Those Italy-based Sri Lankans also expect to sponsor the SVAB scholarship programme covering one thousand more students in the near future in keeping with ongoing SVAB scholarship programme.

Mrs. Anoma Fonseka, President SVAB, who acts as the live-wire behind the project, senior members of the SVAB, senior Army officers and parents of scholarship recipients attended the occasion.