Forty-one Midshipmen pass out at Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA) in Trincomalee

Forty-one Midshipmen belonging to the 28^th and the 29^th Intakes of the Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) commissioned at a colourful commissioning parade held at the main parade ground of the NMA in Trincomalee on 28^th March 2015. The Secretary of Defence, Mr. B.M.U.D. Basnayake graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and took the salute at the invitation of the Commander of the Navy.

Addressing the gathering, the Secretary of Defence stated that the heroic naval personnel made an immense contribution to usher in lasting peace to the island-nation, ending a thirty-year brutal war. The peace we enjoy today was made possible through their dedication, sweat, blood and sacrifices. Elaborating on the country's vast maritime potential, the Secretary of Defence highlighted the SLN's pivotal role in harnessing the country's maritime resources. The Government, therefore, he went on to add, has made the decision to strengthen the Navy and the officers being commissioned today have a decisive role to play in achieving its goals. The Secretary also thanked the parents for giving the consent to their sons and daughters to join the Navy and wished the newly-passed out officers every success in their future career in the Navy, which is being reshaped to take on the new challenges that lie before the nation.

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Jayantha Perera, Mrs. Shalika Perera, the Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Rohana Perera, Director Generals of the Navy, the Commandant of the Naval and Maritime Academy, Commodore Nandana Jayarathne, senior officers representing tri-services and Police, parents and well-wishers were also present at the   parade where 19 and 22 Midshipmen from the 28^th and the 29^th intakes of the KDU received their commission.

The commissioning ceremony, held on completion of a strenuous training at the KDU and the NMA as well as onboard various ships, was held in keeping with the time-honoured customs and traditions of the Navy.

Those who excelled during training were presented with special awards in recognition of their outstanding performances. Accordingly, Midshipman KGASM Wijerathne was conferred with the Sword of Honour, having been adjudged the Best Midshipman. Midshipman WSK Fernando won the award for the highest aggregate in overall subjects while Midshipman MTNK Fernando won the award for the highest aggregate in professional subjects. Midshipman PWSL Bandara received the award for the Best Sportsman and Midshipman RHC Ranaweera won the award for the Best Marksman.

The event concluded with a spectacular cultural performance presented by the Navy Cultural Troupe and a band display of the Sri Lanka Navy band, drawing the glamorous parade to a fitting conclusion.