Sumith Balasuriya facts for kids

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Sumith Balasuriya is a respected retired Major General from the Sri Lanka Army. A Major General is a very high rank in the army, showing that he was a skilled leader. He held several important positions during his career, including leading the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force and serving as the Vice Chancellor of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University. He also commanded the 23rd Division.

Early Life and Joining the Army

Sumith Balasuriya went to Royal College, Colombo, which is a well-known school in Sri Lanka. After finishing his studies, he decided to join the army in 1974. He completed his basic training at the Army Training Centre in Diyatalawa.

Becoming an Officer

In 1975, after his training, he became an officer. This means he was given a special role to lead soldiers. His first rank was Second Lieutenant, and he joined the Sri Lanka Artillery regiment. The Artillery is a part of the army that uses large guns and cannons.

Rising Through the Ranks

As he gained more experience, Sumith Balasuriya became an Instructor Gunnery, teaching others how to use artillery. He continued to rise in his career, eventually becoming the Colonel-Commandant of the Sri Lanka Artillery in 2009. This was a very important leadership role within his regiment.

Key Leadership Roles

Major General Balasuriya attended special training courses, including a staff college and the National Defence College in India. These courses helped him learn how to manage large army operations and lead many soldiers.

Important Commands

He held many senior leadership jobs in the army. Some of these included:

• General Officer Commanding, 23 Division: This meant he was in charge of a large group of soldiers in the 23rd Division.
• Director General Financial Management, Army Headquarters: In this role, he helped manage the army's money and resources.
• Military Co-ordinating Officer, Trincomalee: He helped coordinate military activities in the Trincomalee area.

Leading a University

One of his significant roles was becoming the Vice Chancellor of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University. This university trains future military officers and other professionals. Leading a university shows his dedication to education and developing new leaders. Later, he was appointed as the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force.

Awards and Retirement

Major General Sumith Balasuriya received several awards for his dedicated service to the country. These include the Vishista Seva Vibhushanaya (VSV) and the Uttama Seva Padakkama (USP). These awards recognize officers who have served with great honor and commitment.

He retired from the army in 2010 after a long and distinguished career that began in 1974. After his military service, he continued to contribute to his country by working as the Director General in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.