I remember as if yesterday
That historical day,
February 4, 1948.
The sun’s rays were bright,
Ceylon had gained Independence
After 50 years of British rule.
In total, 500 years of foreign rule.
It is a blessing that
Some of our dear schoolmates
Present on that grand occasion
Are still breathing.
Under the green flag
Proudly we marched
In our fresh green ties
As smart school kids
On the Galle Esplanade,
Now the Cricket Stadium.
Though the old foe
Has turned friend,
We should ever remember
With gratitude
Our early National Heroes
Who were shot or hanged
As rebels by the British.
2010 is historical, the year
We reached the end of the dark tunnel;
On 18 May, 2009
We saw the end of terrorism,
Thus giving us a Second Freedom Day;
Let us remember this great victory
On this 62nd anniversary;
Let us pay grateful tribute,
To the Tri Forces and the Police,
To those who gave leadership
To steer the battleship,
To free Mother Lanka
From the grip of terrorists.
Our tributes extend to
All Forces and civilians
Who laid down their lives
Over three decades
To save their beloved Motherland;
Let us pray that
Sri Lanka will never face
Such a gruesome war again!
Let us pray for a prosperous and peaceful Sri Lanka,
With all communities standing
Under one banner smiling.
Anon,
Galle |
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