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A Visionary Ahead Of His Time

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“MY JOURNEY WITH THE COMMANDO REGIMENT” BY LIEUTENANT COLONEL SUNIL PEIRIS reviewed

by Merril Gunaratne, Retd. Snr. DIG Police

This book is an autobiography of an innovator, discoverer, and explorer whose accomplishments bore the stamp of novelty and a new direction in the art of war. Lieutenant Colonel Sunil Peiris was only a captain with a mere nine years service in the army, when he was handpicked in 1977 to produce or assemble a new force or band of elite men to face any hostage or hijack situation that may arise with the inauguration of the new national SriLankan Airlines.

Incurring the ire and envy of many others barring a few in the army, he not only rose to the daunting challenge before him, but pioneered a fighting force, a regiment rather than a mere 100 men, which with the passage of time became the forerunner to the famed and feared ‘Special Forces’ of the Army. He created its nucleus, laid it’s foundation, and his regiment emerged as the answer to the most dangerous situations that beset defence forces in the face of the scourge of terrorism in the north and east of the country.

His story, narrated with telling force against the backdrop of envy, jealousy and impediments in his way is one of tears and toil. But for all his disillusionment, he eventually won recognition for being a visionary, a contributor to the most daunting standards in prosecuting a war and, above all, as someone who offered a new approach to the art of war against a new enemy – terrorism. These unique accomplishments was the work of a young officer mature beyond his years, without the support of many superiors in the army. It would therefore not be wrong to call Sunil Pieris the “man of his time” in the defence forces.

President JRJ’s directive to the young captain was in a way specific, but in another respect, hazy and ambiguous. The new force to be set up was to contend with hijacks and hostage taking. But the directive also left ample room for Sunil to innovateas exact details about how he was to set about his assignment were not part of the presidential fiat. It was probably such scope for maneuver that inspired Sunil to go beyond the fiat. His instinct and determination dictated the rest.

When Sunil undertook his mission, terrorism had yet to emerge as a major scourge following ethnic disturbances of 1983. There were sporadic forays by terrorists, with attacks on police stations, the murders of Alfred Duraiappah and of isolated policemen. It took some time for the defence establishment to realize that a storm was to follow the relative calm. The, defence forces in late 70’s were not exactly equipped to deal with this new type of warfare. Terrorists were an elusive enemy with emphasis on stealth and surprise and where they gunned down targets in small groups. They practiced the lesson of Mao Tse Dong that “we hit when you run, run when you hit”. With time, police proved “easy prey” for the terrorists. National intelligence was groping in the dark, and army troops realised that conventional methods of war were hopelessly misplaced against the new adversary who avoided confrontations and preferred to spring surprises.

Lt. Colonel Sunil Peiris was way ahead of times. Exploiting scope to maneouvre by a fiat that somewhat lacked precision and clarity, Sunil, confidence overflowing after his successful efforts to create an admirable outfit against hijacks, saw prospects of using the same methods employed for enlistment, training, discipline, and a rigorous work ethic, to enlarge numbers from a Commando Squadron in 1980 to a Commando Regiment in 1986. He envisioned that his outfit could emerge as a “broad spectrum antibiotic” to deal with a variety of adversarial threats. He was a visionary who saw the need for the army to undertake search and destroy missions, Long Range patrolling, operations behind enemy lines, Covert operations and urban anti terrorist operations; and all this before terror attacks transformed from a trickle to a torrent after the ethnic disturbances of 1983. The military establishment was fortunate that Sunil advanced from creating a small body of men to satisfy the fiat of president JRJ, towards assembling a Regiment in stages to come to grips with the new type of warfare unleashed by terrorists. The elite Commando Regiment that was his creation produced officers whose virtues were loads of courage and daring, endurance, resilience and supreme confidence born out of varied skills required in extremely dangerous and testing situations. The word “cannot”, could not find space in the commando lexicon.

Sunil not only went down in history for pioneering the precursor to the “Special Forces”, but also, by producing a Commando Regiment with exceptional standards, proved a source of inspiration to other military formations too to emulate the professionalism of the Commandos. He left his imprint firmly on the army, and carved a niche in the annals of military history. He foresaw events ahead of time, prepared and equipped an organisation to overcome emerging challenges, and by raising professionalism to dizzy heights, infected formations around the commandos . His accomplishments therefore had a pervasive impact on the army by serving as a tonic to invigorate other regiments, battalions and formations.

Lt Colonel Sunil Peris, in his book, devotes considerable attention to his spouse, Manisha and his family members. He was deeply grieved by the tragic death of his brother from the Air Force, Eksith Peiris, and his decision to retire in the quest for medical treatment for his wife in the U.K. demonstrated the extremely caring and humane side of his character. He was fortunate that the magnanimity of President JRJ ensured his return to the Army after treatment for Manisha in the U.K.

The last 10 pages of Sunil’s book, pages 210 to 216, are extremely poignant. His presentation of the circumstances which led to his decision to retire, the sorrow that engulfed him in the aftermath of his decision, his grief in leaving the army that was his passion and to which he contributed like no other, may make the eyes of many a reader moist. Sunil was an upright, honourable soldier, and the order by a person in the political establishment to simply liquidate youth was anathema to him. Knowing that further confrontations were likely, he, the type who was not likely to beg and crawl, took the unalterable decision to terminate his career. We have to accord the highest accolades to an officer who stood unflinchingly by his principles, regardless of consequences; and he well knew the sacrifices he had to make, leaving a career laced with novelty, innovation, reform, a legacy which none other could boast of at that time. His story in the book thus had a sad ending. Perhaps the best stories to read are those which do not climax with happy endings.

How do we assess this officer with a robust, imposing appearance, and yet so personable and caring in his relations with those who made his acquaintance? His career was short, a mere 20 years, when he took the unwavering decision to uphold standards and principles and retire in the face of interference. This step alone singles him out as someone extraordinary and exceptional, for those of such ilk are a rarity in our country. His career was laced with accomplishments which constituted a legacy bequeathed to future generations to emulate. His reach even enveloped the police, for their Special Task Force was conceptually inspired by him. There is no harm in the repetition that his influence invigorated other regiments, battalions, and formations of the Army as well. His leadership too was one of precept and example, for he was always the spearhead in dangerous missions. Leading the parachute jumps in Agra, India, come to mind. It is difficult to imagine that so young an officer had acumen to be a visionary, to administer with finesse, evolve structures and organisations, raise the bar in matters of enlistment and training, be extremely solicitous about the wellbeing of his men, and impress his peers and the defence establishment that he was an officer who possessed both métier and mettle to advance to the summit of the army in the fullness of time. What is particularly remarkable about Lt. Colonel Peiris was that he accomplished the impossible amidst brickbats and obstacles of jealous individuals above and around him. That he had to play ‘solitaire’ in what he did, enhanced his repute even further. He was undoubtedly a man for all seasons. The book is certainly timely, for many today may not remember who was responsible for the roots of the Special Forces. The name of Lt. Colonel Peiris should be suitably engraved as to remind posterity that he was the father of the commandos. This is the least that can be done to an officer who left such a legacy. We have also to remember that he had been exceptional and unique in not craving for promotions and medals in retirement. Reading his book, we have to lament that he passed into the limbo of history, unsung and unwept.

MERRIL GUNARATNEFormerly

* Snr DIG Police

* Director General of Intelligence in MOD

* Advisor MOD

* Director of NIB



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Features

BRICS’ pushback against dollar domination sparks global economic standoff

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BRICS leaders at the recent Summit in Brazil. /United Nations

If one were to look for a ‘rationale’ for the Trump administration’s current decision to significantly raise its tariffs on goods and services entering its shores from virtually the rest of the world, then, it is a recent statement by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent that one needs to scrutinize. He is quoted as saying that tariffs could return ‘to April levels, if countries fail to strike a deal with the US.’

In other words, countries are urged to negotiate better tariff rates with the US without further delay if they are not to be at the receiving end of the threatened new tariff regime and its disquieting conditions. An unemotional approach to the questions at hand is best.

It would be foolish on the part of the rest of the world to dismiss the Trump administration’s pronouncements on the tariff question as empty rhetoric. In this crisis there is what may be called a not so veiled invitation to the world to enter into discussions with the US urgently to iron out what the US sees as unfair trade terms. In the process perhaps mutually acceptable terms could be arrived at between the US and those countries with which it is presumably having costly trade deficits. The tariff crisis, therefore, should be approached as a situation that necessitates earnest, rational negotiations between the US and its trading partners for the resolving of outstanding issues.

Meanwhile, the crisis has brought more into the open simmering antagonisms between the US and predominantly Southern groupings, such as the BRICS. While the tariff matter figured with some urgency in the recent BRICS Summit in Brazil, it was all too clear that the biggest powers in the grouping were in an effort ‘to take the fight back to the US’ on trade, investment and connected issues that go to the heart of the struggle for global predominance between the East and the US. In this connection the term ‘West’ would need to be avoided currently because the US is no longer in complete agreement with its Western partners on issues of the first magnitude, such as the Middle East, trade tariffs and Ukraine.

Russian President Putin is in the forefront of the BRICS pushback against US dominance in the world economy. For instance, he is on record that intra-BRICS economic interactions should take place in national currencies increasingly. This applies in particular to trade and investment. Speaking up also for an ‘independent settlement and depository system’ within BRICS, Putin said that the creation of such a system would make ‘currency transactions faster, more efficient and safer’ among BRICS countries.

If the above and other intra-BRICS arrangements come to be implemented, the world’s dependence on the dollar would steadily shrink with a corresponding decrease in the power and influence of the US in world affairs.

The US’ current hurry to bring the world to the negotiating table on economic issues, such as the tariff question, is evidence that the US has been fully cognizant of emergent threats to its predominance. While it is in an effort to impress that it is ‘talking’ from a position of strength, it could very well be that it is fearful for its seemingly number one position on the world stage. Its present moves on the economic front suggest that it is in an all-out effort to keep its global dominance intact.

At this juncture it may be apt to observe that since ‘economics drives politics’, a less dollar dependent world could very well mark the beginning of the decline of the US as the world’s sole super power. One would not be exaggerating by stating that the tariff issue is a ‘pre-emptive’, strategic move of sorts by the US to remain in contention.

However, the ‘writing on the wall’ had been very manifest for the US and the West for quite a while. It is no longer revelatory that the global economic centre of gravity has been shifting from the West to the East.

Asian scholarship, in particular, has been profoundly cognizant of the trends. Just a few statistics on the Asian economic resurgence would prove the point. Parag Khanna in his notable work, ‘The Future is Asian’, for example, discloses the following: ‘Asia represents 50 percent of global GDP…It accounts for half of global economic growth. Asia produces and exports as well as imports and consumes more goods than any region.’

However, the US continues to be number one in the international power system currently and non-Western powers in particular would be erring badly if they presume that the economic health of the world and connected matters could be determined by them alone. Talks with the US would not only have to continue but would need to be conducted with the insight that neither the East nor the West would stand to gain by ignoring or glossing over the US presence.

To be sure, any US efforts to have only its way in the affairs of the world would need to be checked but as matters stand, the East and the South would need to enter into judicious negotiations with the US to meet their legitimate ends.

From the above viewpoint, it could be said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the most perceptive of Southern leaders at the BRICS Summit. On assuming chairmanship of the BRICS grouping, Modi said, among other things: ‘…During our chairmanship of BRICS, we will take this forum forward in the spirit of people-centricity and humanity first.’

People-centricity should indeed be the focus of BRICS and other such formations of predominantly the South, that have taken upon themselves to usher the wellbeing of people, as opposed to that of power elites and ruling classes.

East and West need to balance each other’s power but it all should be geared towards the wellbeing of ordinary people everywhere. The Cold War years continue to be instructive for the sole reason that the so-called ordinary people in the Western and Soviet camps gained nothing almost from the power jousts of the big powers involved. It is hoped that BRICS would grow steadily but not at the cost of democratic development.

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Familian Night of Elegance …

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The UK branch of the Past Pupils Association of Holy Family Convent Bambalapitiya went into action last month with their third grand event … ‘Familian Night of Elegance.’ And, according to reports coming my way, it was nothing short of a spectacular success.

This dazzling evening brought together over 350 guests who came to celebrate sisterhood, tradition, and the deep-rooted bonds shared by Familians around the world.

Describing the event to us, Inoka De Sliva, who was very much a part of the scene, said:

Inoka De Silva: With one of the exciting prizes – air ticket to Canada and back to the UK

“The highlight of the night was the performance by the legendary Corrine Almeida, specially flown in from Sri Lanka. Her soulful voice lit up the room, creating unforgettable memories for all who attended. She was backed by the sensational UK-based band Frontline, whose energy and musical excellence kept the crowd on their feet throughout the evening.”

Corrine
Almeida:
Created
unforgettable
memories

Inoka, who now resides in the UK, went on to say that the hosting duties were flawlessly handled by the ever popular DJ and compere Vasi Sachi, who brought his trademark style and charisma to the stage, while his curated DJ sets, during the breaks, added fun and a modern vibe to the atmosphere.

Mrs. Rajika Jesuthasan: President of the UK
branch of the Past Pupils Association of
Holy Family Convent Bambalapitiya
(Pix by Mishtré Photography’s Trevon Simon

The event also featured stunning dance performances that captivated the audience and elevated the celebration with vibrant cultural flair and energy.

One of the most appreciated gestures of the evening was the beautiful satin saree given to every lady upon arrival … a thoughtful and elegant gift that made all feel special.

Guests were also treated to an impressive raffle draw with 20 fantastic prizes, including air tickets.

The Past Pupils Association of Holy Family Convent Bambalapitiya, UK branch, was founded by Mrs. Rajika Jesuthasan née Rajakarier four years ago, with a clear mission: to bring Familians in the UK together under one roof, and to give back to their beloved alma mater.

As the curtain closed on another successful Familian celebration, guests left with hearts full, and spirits high, and already counting down the days until the next gathering.

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The perfect tone …

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We all want to have flawless skin, yet most people believe that the only way to achieve that aesthetic is by using costly skin care products.

Getting that perfect skin is not that difficult, even for the busiest of us, with the help of simple face beauty tips at home.

Well, here are some essential ways that will give you the perfect tone without having to go anywhere.

Ice Cubes to Tighten Skin:

Applying ice cubes to your skin is a fast and easy effective method that helps to reduce eye bags and pores, and makes the skin look fresh and beautiful. Using an ice cube on your face, as a remedy in the morning, helps to “revive” and prepare the skin.

*  Oil Cleansing for Skin:

Use natural oils, like coconut oil or olive oil, to cleanse your skin. Oils can clean the face thoroughly, yet moisturise its surface, for they remove dirt and excess oil without destroying the skin’s natural barriers. All one has to do is pick a specific oil, rub it softly over their face, and then wipe it off, using a warm soak (cloth soaked in warm water). It is a very simple method for cleaning the face.

* Sugar Scrub:

Mix a tablespoon of sugar with honey, or olive oil, to make a gentle scrub. Apply it in soft, circular motions, on your face and wash it off after a minute. This helps hydrate your skin by eliminating dead skin cells, which is the primary purpose of the scrub.

*  Rose Water Toner:

One natural toner that will soothe and hydrate your skin is rose water. Tightening pores, this water improves the general texture of your skin. This water may be applied gently to the face post-cleansing to provide a soothing and hydrating effect to your face.

* Aloe Vera:

It is well known that aloe vera does wonders for the skin. It will provide alleviation for the skin, because of its calming and moisturising effects. The application of aloe vera gel, in its pure form, to one’s skin is beneficial as it aids in moisturising each layer, prevents slight skin deformity, and also imparts a fresh and healthy look to the face. Before going to bed is the best time to apply aloe vera.

Water:

Staying hydrated, by drinking plenty of water (06 to 08 cups or glasses a day), helps to flush toxins and its functions in detoxification of the body, and maintenance the youthfulness of the skin in one’s appearance.

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