Forty-nine (49) Midshipmen set sail on their naval journeys as commissioned officers in Trincomalee

In a poignant ceremony marked by a strong sense of duty and national pride, 49 midshipmen embarked on their naval careers as commissioned officers on 28th January 2024. The commissioning ceremony, held at the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA), Trincomalee, was graced by the Prime Minister of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena as the Chief Guest, at the invitation of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera.

During this memorable ceremony of prospective naval officers, 28 Midshipmen of the 38th intake of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) and 21 Midshipmen of the 64th intake of Officer Cadets of the Sri Lanka Navy passed out amidst the applause of their parents and well-wishers, following the commissioning parade held in a dignified sequence at the NMA main parade ground. At the end of the colorful parade, trophies were awarded by the Hon. Prime Minister, to those who were outstanding in various disciplines during basic training. Accordingly, Midshipman MGG Deminda of the 38th intake of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University won the Sword of Honour, having been adjudged the Best Midshipman. He also won trophies for securing the highest aggregate in both professional and overall subjects. Meanwhile, Lady Midshipman KLDS Tanya won the award for the Best Sports Performance and Midshipman DMPS Dassanayaka won the trophy for the Best Marksman.

In the 64th intake, the Sword of Honour and award for the Best Sportsman were won by Midshipman HRL Perera. Midshipman DUM Serasinghe won trophies for securing the highest aggregate in Professional Subjects, Overall Subjects and Nautical Subjects. The trophy for the Best Marksman was won by Midshipman MUS Kumara.

Addressing the newly commissioned naval officers, Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena expressed his profound gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces as well as the Commander of the Navy for extending an invitation to him for this vibrant and splendid evening.

Adding more, he emphasized the pivotal role that the armed forces play in ensuring the security of our Motherland and the safety of our fellow citizens. Therefore, he underscored the profound responsibility the newly passed out officers now carry as members of the service entrusted with safeguarding the nation. Stressing the importance of discipline, the Prime Minister called upon the officers to contribute to the ongoing efforts in making the Sri Lanka Navy a professional and competent institution. Above all, the Prime Minister emphasized the paramount importance of safeguarding the Unity, Territorial Integrity, and Sovereignty of the country.

He also emphasized the vital role of the Navy in safeguarding the country's territorial waters, while also commending their invaluable contributions during natural disasters. Additionally, he underscored the importance of addressing new challenges posed by the prevention of harmful infiltration from the seas. Moreover, Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena emphasized the imperative of delving into innovative modern technology and pointed out the significance of continual professional growth, encouraging the new batch of officers to aspire to leadership roles.

In his address, the Prime Minister also emphasized the profound gratitude owed to those who made supreme sacrifices to protect our Motherland, urging the young officers to remember and honour their legacy.

Finally, the Prime Minister expressed heartfelt gratitude to the parents for their unwavering support in inspiring their sons and daughters to embrace the noble career path of naval service. Additionally, he extended appreciation to the Directing Staffs of KDU and NMA, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping and training these officers for the challenges that lie ahead. The Prime Minister also emphasized the strategic significance of Trincomalee, a region steeped in thousands of years of history, urging the officers to approach their duties with determination, efficiency, and deep respect for the historical value embedded in the area.

The glittering spectacle concluded with a spectacular cultural performance presented by the Navy Cultural Troupe and a Band Display followed by a ceremonial sunset held in accordance with time-honoured naval customs.

Diplomatic corps, Governor of the Eastern Province Hon. Senthil Thondaman, Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva and Spouse, The President of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Mala Lamahewa, Deputy Chief of Staff, Rear Admiral Pradeep Rathnayake, Vice Chancellor of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Rear Admiral Dammika Kumara (Retd), Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Suresh De Silva, Director Generals including Director General Training, Rear Admiral Rohitha Abeysinghe, Area Commanders, Executive Committee Members of the Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Commandant NMA, Commodore Buddhika Liyanagamage & flag-ranking officers, senior officers from the Navy Headquarters and Eastern Naval Command, senior officers of Sri Lanka Army, distinguished invitees and parents of newly commissioned officers were present on this occasion.