Page 113 - QDG Volume 9 No. 5

1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards 111
75th Independence Parade
Celebrating Success: a year in review for
the 1st Reconnaissance Regiment – 2024
As 2024 draws to a close, the 1st Recon-
naissance Regiment reflects on a
remarkable year of achievements, leader-
ship transitions, and community service.
With a blend of operational success,
athletic victories, and significant contri-
butions to national efforts, the regiment
continues to strengthen its legacy.
In a year filled with pride and honour,
the 1st Reconnaissance Regiment had the
privilege of participating in the 75th Inde-
pendence Parade, an event that marked
a significant milestone in the nation’s
history. The parade, which was attended
by dignitaries and citizens alike, gave the
soldiers an opportunity to showcase their
discipline, pride, and the enduring spirit of
the armed forces.
The regiment’s sporting prowess was
on full display when they clinched the
title in the Inter-Unit Rugby Tournament
2024. This victory not only highlighted the
athletic ability of the regiment’s personnel
but also served as a symbol of their
teamwork, determination, and competi-
tive spirit.
In addition to their rugby success, the
regiment also proved their versatility and
competitive edge in badminton. The 1st
Reconnaissance Regiment triumphed
in the Inter-Unit Badminton Tournament
2024, further showcasing the diversity of
talents within the unit. The victory in this
tournament added another layer to the
regiment’s legacy of excellence in both
physical fitness and skill-based competi-
tions.
Following their badminton triumph,
the regiment held a poignant “Legacy
of Honour” event, a gala tribute to past
Commanding Officers who have shaped
the regiment’s history and success.
This occasion allowed the regiment to
reflect on the invaluable contributions of
its former leaders while reinforcing the
enduring values that have defined the
regiment through the years. The event
served as a reminder of the sacrifices
made by those who paved the way for
the regiment’s present and future, as well
as the continued dedication to upholding
their legacy.
as the champions of the Inter-Unit Drill
Competition. The victory demonstrated
the regiment’s discipline, precision, and
ability to execute complex manoeuvres
with the highest level of professionalism.
A significant leadership change took
place within the regiment as Maj MAD
Bandaranayake psc assumed duties
as the 39th Commanding Officer of
the 1st Reconnaissance Regiment. His
appointment marks a new chapter in the
regiment’s history, as Maj Bandaranayake
brings with him a wealth of experience
and a deep commitment to the regiment’s
continued success. Under his leadership,
the regiment is set to continue its tradition
of excellence and service to the nation.
The year 2024 also saw the continued
pride and strength derived from the affilia-
tion with 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards.
This enduring bond between the regi-
ments continues to inspire and elevate the
1st Reconnaissance Regiment, fostering a
sense of shared purpose, camaraderie,
and pride. The 1st The Queen’s Dragoon
Guards have played an instrumental role
in the regiment’s initiation, and the 1st
Reconnaissance Regiment looks forward
to maintaining and strengthening this
relationship in the years ahead.
The regiment hosted a groundbreaking
symposium titled “Future Forge”, focusing
on the important topic of “Social Media
Misuse and the Dignity of the Army”. The
event aimed to raise awareness about
the challenges posed by social media
in the modern military context. Through
engaging discussions, the symposium
emphasized the need to maintain the
dignity and integrity of the armed forces
in the digital age, encouraging soldiers to
be mindful of their actions both on and off
duty. The event was a testament to the
regiment’s forward-thinking approach to
modern military challenges.
In times of crisis, the 1st Reconnaissance
Regiment once again answered the call to
serve the nation. During the devastating
floods that affected the western province
in 2024, the regiment provided invaluable
assistance in flood relief operations. Their
efforts included coordinating logistics,
providing manpower for evacuation, and
distributing essential supplies to affected
communities. The regiment’s swift
response highlighted their commitment to
the people of the nation, reinforcing their
role as both defenders and protectors of
the public.
Drill competitions are a core aspect
of military training, and in 2024, the 1st
Reconnaissance Regiment emerged
Assuming Duties by CO Badminton Champions Disaster Relief Ops