Sailors' get-together held in Welisara on sidelines of 76th Navy Anniversary

A sailors' get-together, organised in line with the forthcoming 76th Anniversary of the Sri Lanka Navy, was held with grandeur today, 6 November 2026 at the 'Wave N' Lake', Welisara, under the patronage of the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando.

The get-together was enlivened by vocal, instrumental and dance performances of the Navy's Cultural Band and Dance Troupe. The event was attended by retired senior sailors of the Navy and serving senior and junior sailors representing all Naval Commands, providing an opportunity for retired and serving personnel to exchange their service experiences.

Speaking at the occasion, the Commander of the Navy stated that the Sri Lanka Navy, established in 1950, has fulfilled a distinctive mission for 76 years for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and maritime security of the motherland. He noted that the Navy is currently shaping under the strategic framework ‘NAVSTRAT-2030 and Beyond,' equipped with necessary capabilities, modern technology and a professionally skilled workforce to face future maritime challenges.

The Navy Commander noted that beyond traditional maritime security operations, the Navy fulfils numerous national and international responsibilities. Through operations to suppress drug trafficking via sea routes under the 'A Nation United' national mission, the Navy has seized narcotics worth over Rs. 114 billion within a one year period. He added that the Navy also takes the lead in providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief during natural disasters.

The Navy Chief stated that prompt and practical solutions are being pursued for welfare matters, including married quarters, to enhance the welfare of sailors. He added that his forward vision is to maintain operational readiness, strengthen the necessary administrative structure and raise the welfare of naval personnel, their families and retired personnel to a commendable level. He also called for the maximum contribution of all naval personnel in maintaining a safe, secure and prosperous ocean region while safeguarding national security.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy AHD Weerathunga; Master Chief Petty Officer RCK Hettiaarchchi (Retd) on behalf of retired senior sailors and Woman Master Chief Petty Officer US Rodrigo (Retd) also made speeches at the gathering, providing a sense of motivation to the serving naval personnel.

Senior officers of the Navy Board of Management, officers, a group of junior and senior sailors, both retired and serving, were present on this occasion.