Commander of the Navy visits sacred sites in Anuradhapura

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando, visited prominent places of worship in Anuradhapura on 12 July 2026, to seek blessings for the Navy’s future endeavours. The visit follows his recent assumption of duties as the 27th Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy. He was accompanied by the President of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs. Kaushalya Opatha Fernando.

During the visit, Vice Admiral Fernando performed religious rituals at the Ruwanweli Seya and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. He subsequently called on Rajakeeya Panditha Most Venerable Ethalawetunuwewe Gnanathilaka Thero, Chief Prelate of Ruwanweli Seya, Chancellor of the Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, overseeing the duties of Atamasthanadhipathi. The Navy Commander offered 'Pirikara' and was bestowed with the Chief Prelate's blessings.

During the meeting, the members of Venerable Maha Sangha commended the Navy for its role in upholding national security, contributing to national development and preserving historic religious sites. They also invoked blessings of the Sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and the protection of the Triple Gem upon the Commander of the Navy and all naval personnel, in their endeavours to successfully accomplish these national duties.

Senior officers and naval personnel from the Navy Headquarters and North Central Naval Command were present on this occasion.