From Benedictine halls to National Command – tribute to the finest

• Hosts grand felicitation ceremony to honour Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP psc IG, the newly appointed 25th Commander of the Sri Lanka Army alongside other esteemed Benedictines who have ascended to highest ranks in the Sri Lanka Armed Forces and law enforcement

In an unprecedented moment of pride, St. Benedict’s College stands tall in history as the first school to produce a Commander of the Sri Lanka Army for the second time. 

The College hosted a grand felicitation ceremony on 7 February, to honour Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP psc IG, the newly appointed 25th Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, alongside other esteemed Benedictines who have ascended to the highest ranks in the Sri Lanka Armed Forces and law enforcement.

St. Benedict’s College has a legacy of producing great military leaders, having also nurtured the Sri Lanka Army 12th Commander General L.D.E. Cecil Waidyaratne, VSV, USP. This monumental occasion is not just a celebration—it is a testament to the college’s unwavering commitment to shaping men of valour, integrity, and service to the nation.

The felicitation ceremony commenced with a heartfelt welcome by Rev. Bro. Director, who warmly greeted the distinguished guests, expressing the college’s immense pride in their achievements. The college Head Prefect Master Aaron Johnpillai addressing the gathering, stated, “This is not just a celebration of success but a beacon of inspiration for every Benedictine. Seeing our own reach the pinnacle of leadership reminds us that discipline, perseverance, and service are the hallmarks of true greatness.”

Honourees of the Felicitation Ceremony were Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP psc IG – 25th Commander of the Sri Lanka Army; Major General W.P.A.D.W. Nanayakkara RSP, VSP, USP, NDU – Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army; Major General U.L.J.S. Perera RSP, USP, NPS, PSC – Senior Officer of the Sri Lanka Army; Air Vice Marshal D.B.V. Weerasinghe USP, MDS, BSc, MIM, PSC – Senior Officer of the Sri Lanka Air Force; Brigadier L.W.S.R. Wettasinghe – Senior Officer of the Sri Lanka Army; Brigadier S.D.N.C. De Silva – Senior Officer of the Sri Lanka Army and Deputy Inspector General S.M.Y. Seneviratne – Senior Officer of the Sri Lanka Police.

Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo’s appointment is a defining milestone, not just for St. Benedict’s College but for Sri Lanka. His journey from the classrooms of Kotahena to the helm of the Sri Lanka Army is an inspiring testament to perseverance, leadership, and honour. Alongside him, these highly decorated officers exemplify the highest standards of military and law enforcement excellence, proving that Benedictines are destined to lead.

Taking the stage amidst a standing ovation, Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo addressed the students, urging them to embrace discipline and perseverance in their pursuit of success. “Every great leader begins with a dream but dreams alone will not take you far. You must work tirelessly, push past your limits, and never settle for mediocrity,” he said. He reminded students that failures are stepping stones to success, emphasising, “The world will not hand you victories—you must earn them through resilience and determination.” Reflecting on his time at St. Benedict’s College, he added, “This school gave me more than an education; it gave me values, strength, and a purpose. Always remember, no matter where life takes you, you carry the Benedictine spirit within you.” He encouraged students to set their sights high and forge their own paths, saying, “Never let fear stop you from achieving greatness. The road ahead may be tough, but if you walk it with courage and integrity, success will follow.”

As these distinguished officers stepped onto the grounds of their alma mater once more, their presence alone ignited a fire of ambition in the hearts of every Benedictine student. The young minds who walk these halls today saw before them living proof that discipline, dedication, and determination can lead to the greatest heights. Their stories were not just heard—they were felt, leaving an indelible mark on the future leaders of tomorrow.

The college administration, teachers, staff, and students eagerly embraced this momentous occasion, recognising it as a historic chapter in Benedictine history. “To witness our own stand among the nation’s highest-ranking defenders is an honour beyond words. This event is not only a felicitation but a beacon of inspiration for generations to come,” FSC St. Benedict’s College Director Rev. Dr. Pubudu Rajapaksha shared.

The air was thick with anticipation as St. Benedict’s College paid tribute to its sons who have made the nation proud. The echoes of their achievements will resonate through the college halls, reminding every Benedictine that greatness is not given—it is earned, and it begins here.