Commander of the Navy graces Marine insignia awarding ceremony as Chief Guest

Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne awarded insignia to 04 officers and 22 sailors of the 07th intake of Sri Lanka Navy Marine, who successfully completed training attached to the amphibious arm of the Navy, at SLNS Vidura in Sampoor on 04th March 2022. The ceremony which was held under the patronage of Commander of the Navy was also attended by the President of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Chandima Ulugetenne.

Established in 2016 with 164 personnel, Sri Lanka Navy Marine has become a formidable force comprising 632 Marines, both officers and sailors, who belong to 07 intakes including the latest one.

Accordingly, the 7th intake which included 33 naval personnel willingly joined this arduous Marine Training conducted over a period of nine (09) months. On successful completion of training 26 naval personnel earned the prestigious Marine Insignia from Commander of the Navy. Commander of the Navy also presented trophies to the naval personnel who excelled in training. As such, Lieutenant PHH Jayathunga (Best Marine & Marine with Highest Aggregate in Overall Subjects, Able Seaman WGA Jeewanka (Best Marksman), Able Seaman EMMD Wijebandara (Best Swimmer) and Ordinary Seaman HMRM Herath (Marine with Best Physical Fitness) received respective awards from Commander of the Navy. The occasion also featured a spectacular display of the Navy Marines' abilities and talents.

Addressing the new batch of Marines, Commander of the Navy said that they shall be determined to develop skills and knowledge through self-training and study in order to carry out future duties efficiently. He also urged them to be aware of new developments in warfare, conversant with new technology and be professional to overcome any challenge in their dispatch of noble duty to the country.

Besides, Commander of the Navy was grateful to the Commandant and Directing Staff of SLNS Vidura, for their untiring efforts in moulding these Marines, as well as the near and dear ones of the new batch of Marines, for encouraging them to pursue training.

The proceedings of the event were organized adhering to COVID-19 protocols. Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Sanjeewa Dias, Director Generals, officers from the Navy Headquarters and Eastern Naval Command, senior officers from sister services and a group of parents of newly passed out Marine personnel were present on the occasion.