Navy celebrates its anniversary following rich naval traditions
 

"Splicing the main brace" is a time-honoured naval tradition passed down from the Royal Navy. Originally, it was an order for one of the most difficult emergency repair jobs aboard a sailing ship; it became a euphemism for authorized celebratory drinking afterward, and then the name of an order to grant the crew who are over 18 years old tot of rum before the lunch.

Subsequently, the Commanding Officer along with ship’s company sits together at one table to enjoy a traditional lunch which is popularly known in the Navy as ‘Badakhana’. This tradition is particularly practiced at the will of the Commanding Officer of a ship or an establishment to mark special occasions. The civil employees aboard ship or attached to an establishment are also invited to this special event. During this cordial gathering, the Commanding Officer gets an opportunity share a light moment with rest of the naval personnel and civil employees.

The Sri Lanka Navy that is celebrating its 67th anniversary today (09 December) held these long-established customs along with the Division Inspections by respective Commanding Officers at every naval establishment.