VNF Annual Camp concludes successfully
 

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva inspected the divisions of the Volunteer Naval Force Annual Camp held at the main parade ground of SLNS Lanka, Welisara, today (18^thJanuary).

The VNF Annual Training Camp which was commenced on 3rd January 2019, in view of updating the professional skills and knowledge of Volunteer Naval Force personnel, marked its conclusion with activities comprised of the Commander of the Navy's Divisions, Ceremonial Parade and vivid cultural show.

The Sri Lanka Volunteer Naval Force which was incepted on 9th January 1952, with 24 officers and 121 sailors, has transformed to a stable force with 461 officers and 11700 sailors by now to provide expertise and manpower in times of national urgency and distress, in paralleled to the national requirement in defence and development. It supplements and provides the Regular Naval Force with required assistance in the execution of tasks entrusted to the Navy as the main arm of the Sri Lanka Navy.

The Commander of the Navy in his address, mentioned that he was impressed to grace this final event as the chief guest and reminded the importance of the parade and the divisions of Annual Camp which are identical and prevalent to the Volunteer Naval Force. Further, he respectfully paid his tribute to the war heroes who sacrificed their lives, disabled and missed in battle field from the inception of VNF, in safeguarding the territorial integrity of the motherland and also praised the family members of them. Besides, Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva expressed his admiration of the exceptional talents of VNF personnel who have brought honour to the country through their skills including sports both on local and international arena and expertise in various fields. He went on to extend his appreciation to the doctors who contribute their service voluntarily for the Navy.

Commander Western Naval Area and Commandant Volunteer Naval Force, Rear Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenna, Director Generals, senior naval officers of Naval Headquarters and Western Naval Command and the Commanding Officer VNF, Captain Tony Perera were also present on the occasion.