The Sri Lanka Air Force played a remarkable role in the humanitarian operation in the North, and Sri Lanka’s history would have been written differently, with the many external pressures if not for the valiant service of the Air Force, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

He said so delivering the keynote address at the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) 60th Anniversary celebrations held at the Ratmalana Air Force Camp premises yesterday (2).

“The SLAF had precise targets in the enemy locations and did not harm any civilians,” he said adding that mistakes are made even by those who possess the most sophisticated technology.

President added that the remarkable training and the discipline of the SLAF which was used to liberate the nation should now be utilized for post-conflict rebuilding.

Also during his speech the President extended the condolence of the nation to the family members of the pilot who died in the Kfir crash Tuesday, adding that the life of a war hero is more valuable to the nation than a heap of metals.

President Rajapaksa also stated that the country was not destroyed by a war but was destroyed by terrorists. “Today we have to rebuild a nation that was destroyed by terrorism,” he said.

The President also noted that certain groups wanted to make people forget the victory over terrorism for selfish motives. He stressed that they are the same elements who attempted to disrupt the humanitarian operation creating a distorted image of the forces.

President Rajapaksa recalled the establishing of the SLAF in March 1951 as the Royal Ceylon Air Force with four aircraft meant for ceremonial purposes. “But now it comprises about 1,400 officers and 35,000 airmen”. He added that the government will assure training and other required equipment to the SLAF.

The President was presented with a commemoration stamp and first day cover by Post and Telecommunication Minister Jeewan Kumaratunga while a new coin of Rs. 1/= issued to mark the occasion was by the Governor of Central Bank, Mr. Ajith Nivad Kabral. An exhibition of armoured vehicles and weapons used during the last sixty years was also held at this occasion.