A total of 16 Midshipmen from the 38th (Legal) and 39th intakes of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU), along with 13 Service Entry candidates, were commissioned on 28th December 2024 at the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA), Trincomalee. At the invitation of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, the event was graced by the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), as the Chief Guest.
The ceremony, meticulously organized under the guidance of Commandant NMA, Commodore Rohan Joseph, also recognized the outstanding achievements of the trainees who received their respective awards from the Defence Secretary.
Midshipman BDN De Silva of the KDU 39th intake clinched triple awards including the Sword of Honour for Best Midshipman and awards for Best Sports Performance, and Highest Aggregate in Overall Subjects. Midshipman DACV Gunawardhana won the award for Highest Aggregate in Professional Subjects, while Midshipman VR Ganegoda was named Best Marksman.
In the Service Entry intake 01/2023, RDS Prasanna stood out by winning the Sword of Honour for Best Service Entry Candidate and awards for Highest Aggregate in Overall Subjects, and Best Marksman. Service Entry candidate B Divyanjali was recognized for Best Sports Performance.
Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) congratulated the newly commissioned officers while addressing the distinguished audience. He expressed his honour to witness the remarkable Naval Commissioning Parade and regarded it as a privilege to welcome these officers into the prestigious ranks of Sri Lanka Navy's courageous officers.
He highlighted the vital role of the armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing the Navy’s unique responsibility as the "Golden Fence" protecting Sri Lanka’s maritime domain. Reflecting on the Navy's heroic contributions during the three-decade conflict against terrorism, he paid tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and those who were injured in this noble cause. He also underscored that as an island nation, Sri Lanka’s security, prosperity, and sovereignty are deeply tied to the Navy’s strength. Furthermore, he noted that the responsibilities of these newly commissioned officers extend beyond national defence, as their interactions with international counterparts will shape the global perception of Sri Lanka.
He described the commission as a rare honour, personally bestowed by the President, and highlighted the Navy’s role in offering officers numerous opportunities for professional development. He also stated that the government is committed to modernizing the defence forces with advanced technologies and equipment while optimizing resources and enhancing operational efficiency through structural reviews.
He concluded by expressing gratitude to the Vice Chancellor and Directing Staff of KDU as well as Commandant and the Directing Staff of the Naval and Maritime Academy for their dedication in shaping these young individuals into key contributors to national security.
The glittering spectacle concluded with a spectacular cultural performance presented by the Navy Cultural Troupe, drill display by recruits and a Band Display followed by a ceremonial sunset held in accordance with time-honoured naval customs.
Diplomatic Corps, spouse of Defence Secretary, Dr. Rasika Perera, the President of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Mala Lamahewa, the Chief of Staff of the Navy, Rear Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Navy and Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Damian Fernando, Area Commanders, Director Generals, executive committee members of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, flag ranking officers, senior officers from the Navy Headquarters and Eastern Naval Command, senior officers from sister services and Police, distinguished invitees and parents of newly commissioned officers were present on this occasion.
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