Twenty-five (25) Midshipmen embark on their naval careers as commissioned officers in Trincomalee

The commissioning of Midshipmen of the 36th and 37th intakes (Technical) of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University was held at the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA), Trincomalee on 18th July 2024. At the invitation of Commandant NMA, Commodore Rohan Joseph, the ceremony was graced by Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, as the Chief Guest. The Guest of Honour of the distinguished occasion was Brigadier Michael Rosette, Chief of Defence Forces, Seychelles.

During this memorable ceremony of prospective naval officers, twenty-five (25) Midshipmen 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.

After inspection of divisions, the Commander of the Navy awarded the trophy to Midshipman MSM Marshad who was adjudged the Best Technical Midshipman. Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Forces, Seychelles awarded the ceremonial swords to the rest of the midshipmen.

Addressing the august gathering, the Commander of the Navy expressed his honour at being the Chief Guest at this commissioning parade. Also, he went on to commend the parents of the newly passed out officers for entrusting their children to the Navy, recognizing it as a unique, challenging, and honourable profession dedicated to safeguarding the motherland. He also remarked that parents should take pride in supporting their children in pursuing such a distinguished career.

Adding further, Vice Admiral Perera emphasized the importance of enhancing leadership skills and abilities acquired through training to ensure future career success. He urged the officers to lead their men and the Navy with dedication, underscoring their vital role in safeguarding the motherland. As proud members of the First Line of Defence, he highlighted the necessity of making timely decisions and providing essential guidance and leadership to their subordinates. Furthermore, he stressed the significance of teamwork, encouraging officers to face challenges collectively.

In closing, the Commander of the Navy expressed his profound gratitude to Brigadier Michael Rosette for gracing the event as the Guest of Honour. He concluded his address by praising the Commandant NMA and his capable Directing Staff for their exceptional efforts in shaping this new cohort of naval officers, who are now poised to embark on their naval careers with confidence and dedication.

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.

The President of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Mala Lamahewa, the spouse of Chief of Defence Forces, Seychelles, Mrs Marie Sandra Rosette, diplomatic corps, Vice Chancellor of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Rear Admiral Dhammika Kumara (Retd), the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Navy and Director General Engineering, Rear Admiral Ravi Ranasinghe, Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, Area Commanders, executive committee members of Navy Seva Vanitha unit, flag ranking officers, senior officers from the Navy Headquarters and Eastern Naval Command, senior officers from sister services and Police, distinguished invitees and parents of newly commissioned officers were present on this occasion.