K. W. T. Nissanka facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
K. W. T. Nissanka †
PWV
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| Born | 21 October 1971 |
| Died | November 14, 1993 (aged 22) Pooneryn, Sri Lanka |
| Allegiance |  Sri Lanka |
| Service/ |
 Sri Lanka Army |
| Years of service | 1990–1993 |
| Rank |  Second Lieutenant |
| Unit | Gajaba Regiment |
| Battles/wars | Sri Lankan civil war |
| Awards |  Parama Weera Vibhushanaya |
Second Lieutenant K. W. T. Nissanka was a very brave officer in the Sri Lankan army. He was part of the Gajaba Regiment and led a group of soldiers called a platoon. He showed amazing courage during a battle, giving his own life to help his injured soldiers get to safety. For his incredible bravery, he received the Parama Weera Vibhushanaya. This is the highest award for courage in the Sri Lanka Army.
Contents
Early Life and Army Training
K. W. T. Nissanka went to D.S. Senanayake College when he was younger. After finishing school in 1990, he decided to join the army. He became a cadet officer, which means he was training to become an officer.
He completed his training at the Sri Lanka Military Academy. After his training, he officially became a Second Lieutenant. He joined the 3rd Battalion of the Gajaba Regiment.
The Battle of Pooneryn
In November 1993, Second Lieutenant Nissanka and his platoon were stationed at the Pooneryn Camp. This area was very important for military control. Because of its importance, the camp was often attacked by the LTTE.
On November 11, 1993, a big attack began around 1:30 in the morning. The LTTE tried to capture the Pooneryn Camp. The main part of this attack hit where Second Lieutenant Nissanka's platoon was defending.
Defending the Camp
Second Lieutenant Nissanka and his soldiers successfully pushed back the first attack. But soon, a second, stronger attack came. This time, the enemy attacked from both the front and the back of their defensive line.
During this intense fighting, Second Lieutenant Nissanka moved between his soldiers' bunkers. He encouraged his men, even though it was very dangerous for him. He asked for more soldiers from his headquarters. However, no help could be sent because the headquarters itself was under attack.
A Heroic Sacrifice
By about 5:00 in the morning, Second Lieutenant Nissanka was badly wounded. Even with great pain, he kept giving orders to his soldiers. As the enemy got closer to his position, he made a very difficult decision. He ordered the remaining soldiers in his platoon to retreat and take their wounded comrades with them.
After giving this order, he took the pins out of two grenades. He then ran towards the advancing enemy. The grenades exploded, killing him and the attacking terrorists instantly. This incredibly brave action allowed the rest of his platoon to get to safety with their injured friends.
For his amazing courage and sacrifice, Second Lieutenant Nissanka was given the Parama Weera Vibhushanaya medal in 1996. This was awarded to him after his death.
See also
- Awards and decorations of the military of Sri Lanka
