Sri Lanka Air Force Ex-Servicemen's Association

The Sri Lanka Air Force Ex-Servicemen’s Association (AFESA) is a non-sectarian and non-political organization affiliated with the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association (SLESA) under Law No. 8 of 1976 of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
The Association exists to maintain Air Force traditions, strengthen comradeship among former personnel, and provide welfare support including financial assistance to members and their families. It ensures continuous connection among retired servicemen while preserving discipline and values of the Air Force.
The affairs of the Association are managed by a Board of Management elected at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). Officers are appointed with the approval of the Commander of the Air Force. The Commander acts as Patron, and the Chief of Staff serves as Vice Patron.

The idea of forming an Ex-Servicemen’s Association was first proposed in February 1980 by Air Vice Marshal Harry Goonetilleke at an AFBM meeting.
Air Commodore G.M.U. De Silva carried out the initial formation work, recommending key appointments and assisting in drafting the constitution with senior advisors and legal assistance.
Group Captain D.B.S. Weeratna was appointed as the first President and Warrant Officer Sol Kulathunge as the first Secretary.
The Association was officially inaugurated on 24th August 1980 at the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Institute, Colombo, with 75 members under the patronage of the then Commander of the Air Force.

In 1995, the Association name was changed to “Sri Lanka Ex-Air Force Association” to include female members.
In 2019, it was renamed “Sri Lanka Air Force Ex-Servicemen’s Association” to formally recognize both male and female servicemen.

In 2003, the AGM approved the formation of branch and provincial associations to expand the organization nationwide.
At present, multiple branches operate across Sri Lanka, with several affiliated to SLESA while others await approval.

To be a beacon to foster an esprit of comradeship and esprit-de-corps among its members and to be the prime mover to look after the welfare interests of members while assisting in their rehabilitation and re-employment.

To prioritize the welfare of retired Air Force personnel and their families through financial assistance including medical, funeral, and educational grants funded by contributions from serving personnel.
To provide due recognition to deceased members through Air Force attending parties and official reading of citations at funerals.
To organize and participate in key events such as Annual General Meetings, family gatherings, Ranawiru Day, and Poppy Day commemorations.
To maintain strong relationships with other ex-service organizations and provide welfare facilities such as holiday homes, clubs, sports facilities, and support services.

In 2017, the Sri Lanka Air Force introduced a monthly contribution from serving personnel to support AFESA welfare activities.
The Seva Suwa Surakum Fund was established and managed by an independent Board of Trustees including representatives from the Air Force and AFESA.
The fund provides medical expense support, funeral grants for members and spouses, and educational assistance for members’ children, ensuring long-term welfare support.

AFESA