Passing out of Naval Recruits of the 226th Regular Intake of Sri Lanka Navy
 

Two hundred and eighty nine naval recruits belonging to the 226th regular intake of the Sri Lanka Navy passed out at SLNS Nipuna in Bossa today (6) after successful completion of their basic training. Office of the Chief of Defence Staff, Director General (Naval & Air Operations) Rear Admiral Sarath Mohotty attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest and took the salute. Venerable Mahasangha, priests from other religions, Commander Southern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Nimal Sarathsena, Deputy Area Commander and Commandant SLNS Nipuna, Commodore Nilantha Heenatigala, a large number of senior and junior officers and sailors, officers of the tri-forces and police in the area, parents and well-wishers were also present on the occasion.

The Passing out Parade which was held in a dignified sequence was comprised of an impressive drill display as well. The ceremony also saw the sailors, who were outstanding in various spheres during their basic training, were awarded for their exceptional skill and commitment. Recruit EHM Silva was adjudged the “Best Recruit” and the Recruit obtaining the Highest Aggregate in all subjects. Recruit WHMTT Herath received the award for the “Best Marksman”, meanwhile Recruit J Seeza won the award for the “Best Sportsman”. “Nilwala” Division was selected as the “Best Division”.

Speaking at the gathering, the Chief Guest, Rear Admiral Mohotty went on to mention about the great Sri Lankan history which spans over 2500 years and as to how we as Sri Lankans overcame quite a number of challenges over the years, ranging from foreign invasions to local hostilities including the 30 year long ruthless terrorism. As such, he requested the new recruits to be mindful of their bounden duty to safeguard the hard won peace for the benefit of the future generations while being proud of the opportunity of joining a victorious navy.

Further he emphasized the newly passed out sailors to make use of the knowledge, gained through their basic training and employ it in future assignments whilst adhering and preserving the well preserved traditions of the Sri Lanka Navy. Also the Chief Guest reiterated that the young blooded sailors must serve the motherland with a lot of respect and dignity protecting the good name of the Sri Lanka Navy while serving the motherland. On behalf of the Commander of the Navy, Rear Admiral Mohotty also thanked the parents for giving the consent to their beloved children to serve the motherland with a noble resolve.