Honoring a Hero: The Legacy of Lieutenant Manohara De Silva
In the wake of tragedy, it’s often the names that are lost in the vastness of history. We remember numbers, we recall the aggregate, but the individual stories fade into the background. When thousands fall, their names become part of an overwhelming tide, and we forget. But for some, like Lieutenant Manohara De Silva, the memory is never lost.
Manohara joined the Sri Lankan Army after finishing school in 1989. He served in the infantry and made the ultimate sacrifice four years later, during his time in action. His friends from Royal College, who had known him since their school days, decided to honor his memory in a way that would ensure his name was never forgotten.
This year, they launched theLieutenant Manohara de Silva WWV Memorial Education Scholarship. The initiative was officially unveiled at the Army Headquarters, with 12 deserving students receiving scholarships worth Rs 60,000 each. The plan is for these scholarships to continue annually until the recipients complete their education, whether that be at the Advanced Level or beyond. The group also hopes to expand the number of scholarships in the future.
In addition to the scholarship, Manohara’s classmates donated a shield for the annual inter-troop first aid competition of the scout group. This new trophy, named theLt Manohara De Silva WWV Memorial Trophy, serves as a lasting tribute to his legacy.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including the Commander of the Army, the Principal of Royal College, and members of theGroup of ’89, led by Mr. Senaka Senaviratne. Senaka, known for his philanthropy, has long been committed to supporting initiatives that benefit Sri Lanka, particularly those connected to Royal College.
During his speech, Senaka reflected on the debt owed to those who have given their lives for the country. He spoke about how Manohara paid the ultimate price, fulfilling the debt he owed to his country and fellow citizens. For his friends, however, this debt remains unpaid, and they have taken it upon themselves to make “loan instalments” in his honor.
Senaka also mentioned another friend from the Group of ’89,Lieutenant Hisham Ousman, who died in 1991 while serving in the Gajaba Regiment. Hisham was a renowned boxer from Royal College, having won the Best Boxer award at three successive Stubbs Shield meets between 1986 and 1988. In 2013, his friends established a boxing scholarship in his name, continuing the tradition of honoring fallen comrades.
Despite the efforts of the Group of ’89, nothing was done in Manohara’s name until this year. Senaka admitted that it was puzzling why they waited so long. “We are sad that we waited so long. In fact, we don’t have an answer to the question of why we waited so long,” he said.
Now, with the launch of the scholarship and the trophy, the group has taken steps to correct that error. Their actions not only honor Manohara but also support students in need, ensuring that his memory lives on. As Senaka explained, this initiative helps keep the memory of their friend alive, while also paying forward the debt owed to all who have contributed to the education of others.
Manohara hailed from Ambalangoda. Known as a quiet boy who never meant harm to anyone, his decision to join the Army surprised many of his friends. Yet, even in death, he continues to inspire. His legacy will not remain silent, thanks to the efforts of those who knew him best.
Through this initiative, the Group of ’89 aims to give voice to the stories of selfless individuals like Manohara. They believe that by supporting students in need, they can help keep his memory alive and remind others of the importance of paying back the debts we owe to our country and its people.
Twelve students received scholarships during the event, marking a significant step in honoring Manohara’s life. This thoughtful gesture reflects the deep respect the Group of ’89 holds for their friend and underscores their commitment to keeping his memory alive.
Thirty-two years have passed since Manohara’s death. Thanks to the efforts of his friends, we now know his name—Lieutenant Manohara De Silva. There are tens of thousands whose names we do not know, and we owe them a debt. Senaka and his friends continue to chip away at that debt, and it is hoped that the rest of the country follows their example. After all, we are incredibly indebted to those who have given everything for our nation.