Fallen veterans of 4th Fast Attack Flotilla commemorated with honour

A commemoration ceremony was held at the Naval Dockyard, Trincomalee today, 31 October 2026, to honour fallen veterans of the 4th Fast Attack Flotilla (4FAF) who laid down their lives on operational duty.

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando, led the proceedings at the war memorial located within the 4FAF Headquarters. Parents and close family members of the fallen service members attended the event.

The Navy played a decisive role in the successful humanitarian operation that brought an end to three decades of terrorism and protected the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Thus, the incomparable contribution of the valiant naval personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty shall be remembered for eternity. The ceremony formed part of a multi-stage initiative organised by the 4FAF to commemorate fallen personnel alongside their families.

Religious observances were held ahead of the main ceremony, beginning with a sermon on 30 October led by Ven. Galle Chanda Nanda Thera of Jayasumanarama Purana Maha Viharaya, Trincomalee, at the Flotilla Headquarters. Today, floral tributes were laid at the war memorial under the auspices of the Commander of the Navy.

Addressing the gathering, the Commander of the Navy stated that the primary objective of the event was to honour and express gratitude to the brave officers and sailors who laid down their lives for the motherland or went missing in action. He noted that the flotilla, initially established in Trincomalee on 14 September 1988, was officially commissioned as the 4th Fast Attack Flotilla on 22 June 2019 and awarded the prestigious President's Colour in recognition of its outstanding service to the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He added that the Sri Lanka Navy's 4FAF proudly stands as a pioneer in introducing asymmetric naval warfare to the world, and emphasised that the ceremony was dedicated to recognising the immense sacrifices made by both the fallen personnel and their families.

Reflecting on his personal service within the Flotilla, having served as a 2nd Officer-in-Command of two Fast Attack Craft (FACs), Officer-in-Command of three FACs, and eventually Commanding Officer of the 4th Fast Attack Flotilla, the Commander of the Navy noted that he is personally familiar with the bravery, camaraderie, leadership and teamwork of the 4FAF personnel and stated that his priorities will always remain directed towards the 4FAF and the Naval Fleet Command. He also extended his gratitude to all participating family members for joining the Navy to remember their loved ones.

The ceremony was attended by retired senior naval officers, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Navy and Commander Eastern Naval Area Rear Admiral Buddhika Liyanagamage, Commander Eastern Naval Area designate Rear Admiral Varuna Ferdinandusz, Flag Officer Commanding Naval Fleet Rear Admiral Haritha Jayadewa, flag rank officers, Commanding Officer 4FAF Captain Sanjeewa Conrad Annathugoda, officers of the Eastern Naval Area, sailors and family members of the fallen heroes.