The Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association held a media briefing in Colombo today to announce details of the upcoming Poppy Flower Remembrance Ceremony on November 24.
Lieutenant Colonel Ajith Siyambalapitiya (Retd), President of the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association, shared, “In honor of the ceremony, we’ve produced poppy flower stickers available for 50 rupees each, along with poppy badges priced at 250, 150, and 100 rupees, which can be displayed on vehicles.” He added that poppies are also distributed in schools, where they can be purchased for around 20 rupees or any amount that supporters wish to donate. Proceeds from these sales will go toward supporting the Ranaviru Home in Katana, which provides care for approximately 30 elderly war veterans.
Additionally, Lieutenant Colonel Siyambalapitiya highlighted the association’s commitment to welfare support, including medical assistance for surgeries, educational scholarships for members’ children, eyeglasses, loan facilities, and self-employment training programs.
Major General Udaya Perera (Retd), Chairman of the Poppy Flower Committee, emphasized the symbolic importance of the poppy in Sri Lanka, stating, “The poppy stands not only as a tradition but as a profound symbol of respect for our soldiers. It is essential for all citizens to wear a poppy as a tribute to our soldiers. This gesture of respect holds greater significance than any monetary support.”
