New SBS batch receives coveted insignia from Navy Commander
With a deep sense of honour and long-standing naval tradition, the Special Boat Squadron (SBS) marked a significant milestone on 10 Apr 26, at its Headquarters in Trincomalee. At the invitation of SBS Commanding Officer, Commander Lakmal Weerakkodi, the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, presided over the insignia awarding and passing out ceremony for Course No. 33. The event celebrated the successful completion of the demanding SBS training programme by 24 sailors, a powerful testament to their resilience and commitment.
The awarding of insignias marked a major achievement for the personnel who successfully finished the 33rd batch of SBS training, representing their dedication to the highest levels of excellence. Following the pinning of the prestigious SBS insignia, those who had distinguished themselves throughout the training period were recognized with awards presented by the Navy Commander.
Distinguished Award Winners
Ordinary Seaman WSA Fernando
- Commander SNK Silva Memorial Trophy (For the Highest Aggregate in Overall Subjects)
- Chief Petty Officer KG Shantha Memorial Trophy (For the Best Sportsman)
- Lieutenant Commander SW Gallage Memorial SBS Dagger (For the Most Excellent SBS Member)
Ordinary Seaman JMRP Jayathilaka
- Commander CD Martenstyn Memorial Trophy (For the Best Marksman)
Ordinary Seaman PS Jayawardana
- Lieutenant Commander SK Dalugama Memorial Trophy (For the SBS Member with the Highest Physical Endurance)
Ordinary Seaman SET Sumathirathna
- Lieutenant Commander TD Palihena Memorial Trophy (For the Best Swimmer)
Addressing the newly passed out SBS personnel, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda extended congratulations while paying tribute to the visionary founders and past members whose dedication established the SBS as a premier combat force.
The Commander of the Navy also expressed gratitude to the instructors for molding such a proficient bunch of naval personnel and acknowledged the parents for allowing their children’s "youthful energy and courage" to the nation.
The Navy Commander, further elaborating, emphasized that this insignia worn by SBS personnel is not merely a symbol of victory but must always be remembered as a message of profound responsibility. He expressed fervent wish that these personnel, with unwavering courage and strong determination, may continue to render an honourable and distinguished naval service.
Furthermore, he stated that the Sri Lanka Navy, entrusted with the key responsibility of ensuring maritime security, has achieved successful outcomes through its dedicated commitment to the national mission "A Nation United” aimed at rescuing future generations from the scourge of drugs. He expressed confidence that all naval personnel will remain steadfastly committed to further advancing these objectives.
The event was further highlighted by a breathtaking live demonstration at the Nicholson Cove sea area, showcasing the squadron’s "Land, Air, and Sea" capabilities, as well as a spectacular parachute display, led by Commander Kamal Tissa Kumara.
The event was attended by the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Navy, Rear Admiral Ravindra Tissera, Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Kosala Warnakulasooriya, senior officers from the Army and Air Force and family members of the newly passed out sailors.
