Commander of the Navy felicitated by alma mater
St. Joseph Vaz College, Wennappuwa, hosted a felicitation ceremony today, 9 September 2026, to honour one of its distinguished old boys, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando following his appointment as the 27th Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy.
The event, organised by the school's old boys, teaching staff, and students, began with a warm reception led by the Principal, Rev. Fr. Priyanjeeva Gunaratne. Vice Admiral Fernando paid tribute at the statue of St. Joseph Vaz before receiving a guard of honour from the school cadet platoon and being escorted to the main venue by the college band.
Rev. Fr. Gunaratne delivered the welcome address following religious blessings and a performance of tribute songs. Speeches were also delivered by Mr. Malraj Balapitiya representing the Old Boys' Association, Shimali Fernando on behalf of former teachers, and Rev. Fr. Amal Prasanna Perera, Principal of the Primary Section.
Addressing the gathering, the Navy Commander said that returning to his alma mater, St. Joseph Vaz College, felt like coming home. Recalling his own days as a schoolboy, he urged students to dream without fear, reminding them that his own future was once invisible but was always waiting. He stressed that true character is not built in moments of glory but through countless ordinary decisions such as honesty, discipline, humility, and the courage to try again after failure.
The Commander called on students to prepare not merely for jobs, but to solve problems and create value for the nation, living by the school motto ‘Domino Pro Patria’. He issued a stark warning against drugs, describing narcotics networks as a grave threat to Sri Lanka’s future, and urged every student to refuse the first invitation and to help friends, if any, caught in addiction.
Addressing parents, he advised them to nurture their children’s unique gifts and allow them to learn from their mistakes. In closing, he left three lasting lessons: keep your word, do not fear failure, and never forget where you came from. He reminded the young Vazians that their choices today will shape the nation’s tomorrow, and that they must always be ready to serve their country with pride and purpose.
To mark the occasion, the Navy Commander planted a sandalwood sapling on the school premises. The ceremony was attended by serving and retired service personnel of the armed forces and police who are old boys of the college.