Navy hosts sailors’ get-together for its 73rd Anniversary

The Sri Lanka Navy has organized a wide range of programmes, giving pride and place to religious activities and time-honoured naval traditions, to mark its 73rd Anniversary. As part of these events, the sailors’ get-together was held on a colourful note at the Wave n' Lake Navy Hall today (20th December 2023). The event was presided over by Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera.

Organized under the theme "Elegance of the Blue Wave" (Nil Ralle Chamathkaraya), this friendly gathering aimed to express gratitude towards retired senior sailors and acknowledge the contributions of serving senior and junior sailors from various naval commands in attendance. Thus, they were able to exchange their service and retired life experiences, allowing serving members to share their service experience and retired senior sailors to impart their experiences in post-naval life.

The lively occasion was captivated by the musical performances, instrumental displays, and dance presentations by the Navy Band and Cultural Troupe. Additionally, the Commander of the Navy, Chief of Staff, senior officers, and attending sailors took pleasure in partaking in the traditional meal, 'Barakana' as well.

Addressing the gathering, Commander of the Navy emphasized that it is the collective responsibility of all to uphold the Navy's remarkable 73-year legacy and ensure the successful fulfillment of its distinctive roles, thereby contributing to the nation's maritime ambitions. Adding more, he underscored the importance of fostering a robust connection among officers, senior sailors, and junior sailors to execute their distinctive responsibilities with efficiency. Maintaining this strong bond ensures that Navy personnel remain unaffected by external influences during challenging periods, he opined. The Navy Chief also highlighted the significance of collectively addressing challenges, reinforcing the commitment to fulfilling the Navy's mission.

Chief of Staff of the Navy, Rear Admiral Jayantha Kularatne, senior officers from the Navy Board of Management, senior officers from the Navy Headquarters, Area Commanders including Commander Western Naval Area and Commandant Volunteer Naval Force, Rear Admiral Saman Perera, flag-ranking officers, officers, retired naval personnel, a cross section of women sailors were also present on this occasion.