His Excellency the President and the Secretary of the Ministry of Defence have always recognized the invaluable service of the military, rendered towards this nation - Commander of the Navy

I take great pride in addressing this esteemed gathering to convey that, true to the expectations of every citizen, once more the Sri Lanka Navy has dutifully fulfilled its responsibility by dedicating to the nation a synergy of talent, charisma and bravado, which is instilled in these young individuals who are being commissioned today to lead, guide and safe guard the nation from every adversity and atrocity.

In a few moments from now, you will take your final step across this Quarterdeck and move on to play your part in the 21st century maritime security environment. I am confident that you will work hard to the best of your ability and fulfill every task entrusted to you abiding by every rule this organization sets forth, while also upholding the pride of your parents and family, who are here to witness this glorious moment and most importantly, be true to your own dreams and aspirations.

It is our duty to fulfill the aspirations of His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Sri Lanka, with utmost loyalty. This I expect you to bear in mind now and always.

At a time when the country is focusing on achieving sustainable development in many avenues in order to become the Wonder of Asia consistent with the "Mahinda Chinthana" strategic projections, His Excellency the President and the Secretary of the Ministry of Defence have always recognized the invaluable service of the military, rendered towards this nation. A lot has been done to prioritize and safeguard the interests of the Armed Forces personnel.

I am also very thankful to you for your wise decision to join the service at a time when the cream of the youth is engaged in safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our motherland, and I also extend my deep appreciation and gratitude to your parents for their encouragement and motivation which enabled you to make this decision.

This was said by the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Jayantha Perera, addressing the officers being commissioned at the colourful commissioning and passing out parade held at the Main Parade Ground of the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA) in Trinomalee on Saturday 11th October 2014.

At the commissioning and passing out parade, 116 midshipmen including 70 Executive, 17 Technical, 20 Logistics and 09 Patrolmen belonging to the 52nd Intake passed out, having received their commission. The Chief Guest, Vice Admiral Jayantha Perera, the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, took the salute after inspecting the parade.

The President of the Navy Seva Vanitha Unit Mrs. Shalika Perera, the Commander Eastern Naval Area Rear Admiral Rohan Amarasinghe, Director Generals of the Navy, the Commandant of the Naval and Maritime Academy Commodore Nandana Jayarathne, Senior Officers representing Tri - Services & Police, Well wishers and parents of passing out Midshipmen were also present on the occasion.

At the illuminated main parade ground, the newly-passed out officers marched in a proud and elegant manner captivating the audience who had gathered to witness the momentous event. Clad in ceremonial naval uniforms, they displayed their talent and skills to the enthrallment of everyone that was present. The parade was held in keeping with the time-honored traditions and customs of the Sri Lanka Navy.

Those who showed excellence during training were presented with special awards in recognition of their outstanding performances.

Midshipman RGRS Gunawardana, who was adjudged the Best Midshipman and Midshipman with the highest aggregate in overall subjects, was conferred with the Sword of Honour. Midshipman SWEHB Lewle was adjudged the Best Sportsman and Midshipman MA Manthilawas adjudged the Best Marksman.