All arrangements are in place to hold the 69th Independence Day parade under the patronage of the President Maithripala Sirisena at the Galle Face Green in Colombo on 4th February 2017. This year's ceremony is to be held under the 'National Unity' theme. Religious observances started with an All-night Pirith Chanting Ceremony at the Independence Square yesterday (2nd Feb). Religious observances are also schedule to take place prior to the ceremony at Polwatta Dharmakeerthyarama temple in Colombo, St. Theresa Church in Thimbirigasyaya, Grand Mosque in Colombo 12, Sri Ponnambalawaneswaran Kovil in Colombo 13, and St. Luke Church in Borella. Total of 8000 personnel are taking part in the parade, including 183 officers and 3973 soldiers from Army, 32 officers and 878 sailors from Navy, 70 officers and 1055 airmen from Air Force, 18 officers and 470 policeman, 37 officers and 496 personnel from STF, 24 officers and 684 other ranks from Civil Security Department and more than100 personnel from National Cadet Corps. Special parachute display is also to be held during the ceremony with the participation of tri forces personnel. The event also includes a 25-Gun Salute to the Nation.Original Article
