Eulogy for the Late Lieutenant General Denzil Kobbekaduwa

• He was not only a brilliant commander but also a visionary who championed a values-based military culture long before such ideals were widely discussed

A solemn memorial service was held on July 29, 2025, at St. Therese’s Church, Thimbirigasyaya, to commemorate the 33rd death anniversary of the late Lieutenant General Denzil Kobbekaduwa, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected military leaders. 
Lieutenant General Kobbekaduwa was tragically killed in action in Araly, Kayts, on August 8, 1992, leaving behind a legacy of courage, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the nation. 
The commemorative eulogy was delivered by this writer who was the former Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force. In his remarks, tribute was paid to General Kobbekaduwa’s exceptional service, integrity, and enduring impact on the Sri Lankan Armed Forces. 
The event was attended by family members, military officials, dignitaries, and well-wishers who gathered to honour the memory of a true hero.

General Kobbekaduwa: calm amid command

Excerpts from 
the speech;
“It has been one of the highest honours of my professional life to have served alongside the late Lieutenant General Denzil Kobbekaduwa during some of the most pivotal and defining phases of his distinguished military career. I had the distinct privilege of working in close coordination with him, particularly during his appointments as Coordinating Officer in Kilinochchi, as Security Forces Commander Wanni, and subsequently, at the Joint Operations Command in Colombo. 
“In each of these appointments, I witnessed firsthand a leader of rare calibre, strategically smart, deeply principled, and unwavering in his sense of duty. His 
His presence inspired confidence, his decisions reflected wisdom, and his leadership motivated those around him to give their very best. 

“Beyond our formal association, I encountered him often across operational theatres in the North and East. In every instance, his calm authority and resolute spirit were a source of immense reassurance to all who served with him. 
“Lieutenant General Kobbekaduwa’s legacy endures—not only in the annals of our military history but in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing and serving with him. 
“He was an officer of unmatched integrity and moral courage. He consistently upheld the highest ethical standards, choosing the path of justice even in the most volatile circumstances. To him, military professionalism went far beyond technical skill—it embodied discipline, honour, and an unwavering commitment to the highest standards of conduct, both on and off the battlefield. He inspired not mere obedience, but a shared sense of purpose and pride among his men. 
“During his command as Security Forces Commander – Wanni, I was a young Flying Officer attached to the Air Force Base in Vavuniya. As a junior aviator, I looked up to General Kobbekaduwa as a role model. His strength of character, visionary leadership, and genuine empathy left an unforgettable impression on me during the formative years of my career. 
“I witnessed him remain composed under pressure, leading from the front with courage and clarity. His decisions, even in the heat of high-stakes operations, were shaped not only by tactical logic but by deep compassion and conviction. 
“In 1999, while following the Staff Course in the United States, I reflected on my experiences under his leadership for my academic portfolio on Command and Leadership. He became the central figure in my study module—an example of how a commander can be firm, fair, and friendly. His leadership model is one I have strived to emulate throughout my professional journey. 
“What stood out most was his genuine care for his subordinates. Despite my being from a different service, he never drew boundaries. His leadership was inclusive, embracing all who wore the uniform in service to the nation, regardless of rank or affiliation. 

From Vavuniya to Kayts: Planning beyond the battlefield.

“His compassion extended beyond the military. He was deeply concerned for the welfare of civilians in conflict-affected border villages. I recall how he mobilised support for vulnerable communities, securing vital assistance for families facing poverty, displacement, and illness. These quiet, sincere acts of kindness done without fanfare reflected his deep empathy and unwavering social conscience.To me, and to many others who knew him, the late General Kobbekaduwa was the very embodiment of what a military leader should be: a man of unbreakable integrity, sharp intellect, deep compassion, and relentless commitment to duty. He reminded us—more by example than by words—that true leadership is rooted in integrity, professionalism, and empathy. 
“He was not only a brilliant commander but also a visionary who championed a values-based military culture long before such ideals were widely discussed. He was an avid sportsman as well—his competitive spirit was matched only by his humility and grace. 
“His life and career continue to serve as a guiding light for all who serve, reminding us that excellence in military service is measured not only in victories but in honour, humility, and humanity. 
“It is my firm belief that the Sri Lankan Armed Forces—and generations of officers yet to come—will continue to draw inspiration from his life and legacy. His contribution to our nation is eternal and deserves to be celebrated with the highest reverence and respect. 
“May the life of the late Lieutenant General Denzil Kobbekaduwa—a true patriot, a selfless leader, and a treasured son of Sri Lanka—be honoured by future generations not only for his military brilliance, but for the greatness of his character and the nobility of his soul”.
“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others.”— General Douglas MacArthur 
The Writer, Air Chief Marshal Gagan Bulathsinghala (RWP RSP VSV USP MPhil MSc FIM ndc psc) is the President of the Association of Retired Flag Rank Officers, Senior Fellow, South Asia Foresight Network and Formerly Commander, Sri Lanka Air Force, and an Ambassador to Afghanistan.