Sokians felicitate Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva
 

A ceremony to extend sentiments of appreciation and felicitation to one of the proud products of the Dharmasoka College, Ambalangoda - Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva has been organized at the college premises yesterday (17^th January).

The Navy Commander was presented a Guard of Honour by the college cadet platoon upon his arrival at the entrance of the college premises and he was then ushered to the venue of the reception ceremony in a colourful procession. Subsequent to the lighting of traditional oil lamp, the proceedings of the programme kicked off. Thereupon, the President of Past Pupils Association and the Principal of the college addressed the august gathering.

The occasion was also attended by a host of tri forces and police personnel educated at the Dharmasoka College, Ambalangoda, past pupils, teachers and a large number of college students.

Addressing the gathering, Vice Admiral Silva expressed his deep sense of gratitude to the organizers for conducting a felicitation ceremony for him and said that he was more than happy to perform a noble service for the motherland, while bringing credit to his alma mater. Further, the senior officer with 35 years of service in the Navy, expressed his joy for being able to be appointed as the 23^rd Commander of the Navy and become the first naval officer produced by the college to reach the top slot in the Navy. Navy Commander also made an honourable remark of all teachers who guided and assisted him to reach new heights during his school career. Providing incentive to young Sokians, Admiral Silva emphasized the importance of striking a balance between academic as well as sporting activities in order to be victorious in the modern world. Finally, he once again expressed his thanks to the Principal, President of Past Pupils Association, teachers, students and past pupils for organizing this felicitation ceremony on high note.

Marking the importance of this occasion, the Principal and staff members presented a memento to Commander of the Navy and the gesture was reciprocated by presenting a memento to the Head Master of the school. Subsequently, he made a visit of inspection to the college cadet platoon and left his autograph in the visitors’ book kept there.

Meanwhile, a friendly basketball encounter was held between the college basketball team and the team of old pupils at the college basketball court. The Commander of the Navy, who is still a fine player of basketball in the Navy, competed in the game making it more exciting for the spectators as well as the college team. On completion of the game, Vice Admiral Silva made a donation of basketballs to the school, in view of the improvement of the game. In the annals of Dharmasoka College, Ambalangoda, Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva will remain to be the first Commander of the Navy produced by it.