Marching into service: 373 Navy recruits pass out with pride in Boossa
The Sri Lanka Navy proudly welcomed 373 new recruits into its fold during a colourful passing out parade held at the main parade ground of SLNS Nipuna in Boossa, Galle, on 27 Apr 26. This latest cohort of the 263rd intake comprises 230 regular and 143 volunteer recruits who successfully completed their basic naval training. The ceremony was graced by the Director General Health Services, Rear Admiral Janaka Marambe, as the Chief Guest, at the invitation of the Commandant and Commanding Officer SLNS Nipuna, Captain Rasika Piyasena.
The recruits who remained outstanding in the basic training period, received awards from the Chief Guest, in recognition of their excellent performances.
Award Winners
Recruit WMMN Weerasekara
- Best Recruit
Woman Recruit SH Diwani
- Recruit with the Highest Aggregate in All Subjects
Recruit MMBN Mapa
- Best Sportsman (Men)
Woman Recruit AMNA Adhikari
- Best Sportsman (Women)
Recruit AMAR Bandara
- Best Marksman (Men)
Woman Recruit NLDDS Liyanage
- Best Marksman (Women)
“Anula” Division
- Best Division
Addressing the new sailors, Rear Admiral Janaka Marambe extended warm congratulations and reminded them of the profound responsibility they now carry. He emphasized that the Sri Lanka Navy holds a pivotal role in national security and that it is the duty of the new generation to preserve the peace and freedom secured through enormous sacrifices.
The Chief Guest further urged the new batch of sailors to remain updated with rapidly evolving global technology, along with newly acquired knowledge and skills effectively for the betterment of the service. He underscored that the Navy expects them to manage the challenges of naval and personal life with resilience. Above all, they must uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the motherland with the utmost pride, he added.
Concluding his address, Rear Admiral Marambe expressed deep gratitude to the parents for entrusting their disciplined sons and daughters to the service of the nation, and acknowledged the Directing Staff for their invaluable contributions.
The event concluded with a spectacular drill display by the newly passed-out recruits, complemented by the vibrant performances of the Navy Band and the Cultural Troupe.
The ceremony was attended by the Commander Southern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Dammika Wijewardana, Director General Coast Guard, Rear Admiral Rohan Joseph, alongside officers from the Navy Headquarters and the Southern Naval Command, as well as the proud families of the new batch of sailors.
