Thirty-two (32) RABS personnel awarded insignia on completion of training
Four (04) officers and twenty-eight (28) sailors who successfully completed the Rapid Action Boat Squadron (RABS) Qualifying Course-26, were awarded insignia at the parade ground of RABS Headquarters in Gagewadiya, Puttalam on 09th April 2022. Director General Operations, Rear Admiral Prasanna Mahawithana graced the event as the Chief Guest.
The trainees underwent eight (8) months of comprehensive training, sharpening their skills on RABS classic role using small boats, lifesaving as well as rescue missions that are carried out during disaster situations.
In recognition of the training excellence, the course participants were presented special awards by Rear Admiral Prasanna Mahawithana who graced the occasion on behalf of Commander of the Navy. The award for the Best Trainee was secured by Lieutenant PHNN Dayarathna. Lieutenant GGCL Gamage was adjudged to be the Best Boat Handler. Meanwhile, Able Seaman PWMRSB Gamage received the awards for the Best Lifesaver and trainee with Best Physical Fitness.
Subsequent to the insignia awarding ceremony, the trainees of Qualifying Course-26, put on display some battle drills and lifesaving rescue scenarios to demonstrate their skills honed through this training. A Bell 212 helicopter of the Sri Lanka Air Force also chipped in for the demonstration.
The Rapid Action Boat Squadron was established in 2007 with the motto "Victory Beyond Infinity". In the Humanitarian Operation which eradicated decade-long brutal terrorism in the country, the RABS played a key role to successfully nullify threat of Sea Tigers. As such, the Squadron made a significant contribution in successfully implementing the Small Boat Concept of the Navy to launch fierce attacks on the enemy and to maintain safe navigation in the northern and eastern seas.
At present, RABS is making a significant contribution to the fight against non-traditional maritime threats, other forms of illegal activities in Sri Lankan waters, and is prepared to engage in relief efforts for the people affected by natural disasters.
The event was organized adhering to COVID-19 protocols and it was attended by Director General Training, Rear Admiral Dammika Kumara, Commander Northwestern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Suresh De Silva, Director General Civil Engineering, Rear Admiral Ranjan Meddegoda, Commanding Officer RABS, Commander Gayan Wickramasooriya, officers from the Navy Headquarters and Northwestern Naval Command, officers from sister services and parents of the new batch of trainees.