34 Midshipmen commissioned as Naval Officers at Naval & Maritime Academy in Trincomalee

The Commissioning Ceremony of 33^rd (Technical) and 34th Intake (KDU) Midshipmen who were trained at the Naval & Maritime Academy (NMA) in Trincomalee and at Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) was conducted at the Naval & Maritime Academy in Trincomalee, on 03^rd July 2020.

In this grand ceremony which took place at the main parade ground of NMA, 34 Midshipmen of 33^rd (Technical) and 34^th KDU Intakes, who underwent their training at the NMA-Trincomalee and KDU received the commission and passed out. The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva graced the occasion as the Chief Guest on the invitation of the Commandant Naval & Maritime Academy, Commodore Prasanna Mahawithana.

Many dignitaries including the Director Generals of the Navy, the Commander Eastern Naval Area, senior officers from the Naval Headquarters and Eastern Naval Area, officers representing Tri-Services and Police and parents of the newly passed out officers were also present on this occasion, adding much glamour to this event.

Officer Under Trainees who performed well during the training were presented with special awards in recognition of their outstanding achievements as follows.

a. Midshipman - PA Dalugama - Highest aggregate in overall subjects (33rd Technical)

b. Midshipman - DS Karunasena - Sword of Honour being the Best Midshipman

c. Midshipman - WGS Deemantha - Highest aggregate in overall and professional subjects

e. Midshipman - VS Wijegunarathne - Best Marksman

f. Lady Midshipman - DMP Nadeeshani - Best Midshipman in sports

The impressive ceremony culminated with a display presented by the Navy Band and cultural troupe followed by a colourful ceremonial sunset. All the events of the ceremony were conducted following all healthcare guidelines considering the COVID-19 pandemic situation.