MCPO WMGA Kumara appointed as Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy

Master Chief Petty Officer WMGA Kumara was appointed to the position of Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) effective from today (19th December 2023). This role, introduced to acknowledge the senior sailors of the Sri Lanka Navy, reflects a significant recognition of his expertise and leadership. Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera handed over the arm band and batton, symbolic of the position to the senior sailor at the Navy Headquarters.

The Navy aims to enhance the focus on sailors' welfare, training, and administrative functions by instituting this new role. Through established channels, the objective is to ensure that these concerns reach the Commander of the Navy, thereby facilitating more efficient resolution of such matters. In addition, the designated senior sailor will serve as the foremost sailor of the Navy in official ceremonies, drills, and similar events.

For this newly available position, candidates must meet specific criteria. These include having a minimum of 20 years of unblemished and continuous service, being a married member, completing at least one year of sea period, and having a minimum of four years of sea period for those in the seaman branch. Furthermore, meeting the required body mass index and consistently passing physical endurance tests throughout the service tenure are mandatory criteria. Additionally, candidates must have fulfilled duties within their branch for a minimum of 15 years at the time of selection. It is also essential not to have been on the long sick category for more than one continuous year during the service period. Furthermore, the Selection Board will consider candidates who have served for a minimum of one year as the Master at Arms or Chief Instructor in a training establishment, or as a Senior Sailor in Charge at a major work site or Naval Hospital. Emphasis will also be placed on applicants with strong listening and interpersonal skills, along with proficiency in both English and Sinhala.

Congratulating Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, WMGA Kumara on his appointment to this new position, Commander of the Navy briefed him on the significance of this role and the expected approach to its responsibilities. The Chief of Staff of the Navy, Rear Admiral Jayantha Kularatne and senior officers including Director Naval Personnel, Commodore Rajapriya Serasinghe were also present on this occasion.