The President of the Sri Lanka Air Force Ex-Servicemen’s Association (SLAFESA), Air Vice Marshal Hemantha Soysa USP (Retd), made an official courtesy call on the Commander of the Air Force and Patron of the Association, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, on 13 February 2026 at Air Headquarters, extending his greetings.

During the cordial discussion, matters of mutual interest were discussed, including future initiatives to further strengthen cooperation between the Association and the Sri Lanka Air Force.

The President expressed appreciation to the Commander and the Air Force Board of Management (AFBM) for their continued support and encouragement in enhancing welfare facilities for the retired community. He also briefed the Commander on his proposed plan of action aimed at further improving welfare and related initiatives.

The delegation included First Vice President Air Vice Marshal Kithsiri Leelaratne (Retd), Second Vice President Air Commodore Amal Wimalaratne, and Secretary Mr. Kamal Padmakantha.

As a gesture of goodwill, the President presented the Association’s official cufflink set to the Commander to mark the occasion. The Commander extended his best wishes to the President and the Association at the conclusion of the visit.

A special observation visit was conducted under the leadership of President Air Vice Marshal Hemantha Soysa USP (Retd) to the Sky Legacy Air Force Care Home at SLAF Base Katunayake, which is nearing completion, and the Veterans’ Home at Bolagala, Katana, on 06 February 2026.

The SLAFESA team included Secretary, Mr. Kamal Padmakantha and the Head of the Sub Committee on Medical Grants and Facilities, Flying Officer WG Perera (Retd).

Six members of the Association, including Vice President III, Mr. LY Dayawansha, participated with great pride in the Independence Day Parade on 04 February 2026 representing veterans of the Tri-Services.

The Association pays tribute to all Air Force veterans who dedicated their youth to safeguarding the territorial integrity of the nation and who continue to uphold the honour and dignity of the Service even after retirement.

The Executive Committee (EXCO) decided to cancel the Annual Get-Together due to the impact of Ditwah and instead prioritize providing financial assistance to needy members. Accordingly, a Special Financial Assistance Programme was initiated to extend relief to affected members, and the handing over of cheques was held on 21 January 2026 at the Ex-Servicemen’s Association Auditorium.

During the event, a total of Rs. 600,000.00 was disbursed among 49 retired members, with cheques being symbolically presented to eight beneficiaries.

SLAFESA continues to play a leading role in supporting its members during times of need. The occasion was presided over by the President and the Secretary, with the participation of EXCO members.

The Annual Raffle Draw organized by the Sri Lanka Air Force Ex-Servicemen’s Association (SLAFESA) was held on 18 January 2026 at the Auditorium, Guwanpura, during the monthly Executive Committee meeting.

The occasion was graced by the Coordinating Officer to the Commander of the Air Force, Air Commodore Samantha Weerasekera and Past President, Air Vice Marshal Elmo Perera (Retd).

The main prize winners were drawn by Air Commodore Samantha Weerasekera, while the ten consolation prize winners were selected by the President, members of the Executive Committee, and the Head of the Sub Committee on Raffle, Mr. Henry Fernando.

Prize Details:
• 1st Prize: Rs. 100,000.00
• 2nd Prize: Rs. 50,000.00
• 3rd Prize: Rs. 25,000.00
• Consolation Prizes (10): Rs. 5,000.00 each