388 Navy recruits set sail into service after passing out in Poonewa

In a proud moment for the Sri Lanka Navy, three hundred and eighty-eight (388) recruits of the 250th intake of Sri Lanka Navy Regular and Volunteer Forces passed out at the main parade ground of SLNS Shiksha on 13th May 2023. The recruits consisted of 345 from the Regular Force and another 43 from the Volunteer Force.

The ceremony was graced by the Commander North Central Naval Area, Rear Admiral Janaka Nissanka as the Chief Guest, at the invitation of the Commandant cum Commanding Officer of SLNS Shiksha, Captain Manjula Hewa Battage. The recruits who performed exceptionally well during basic training were given recognition for their outstanding performance through awards presented by the Chief Guest.

Accordingly, Recruit YBMDCY Bandara won the awards for the Best Recruit of the 250th intake and Highest Aggregate in all subjects. Meanwhile, Recruit HWAKD Widanaarachchi won the award for the Best Marksman. The award for the Best Sportsman was won by Recruit KMG Thathsara and the ‘Jagatha’ Division was selected as the Best Division of the 250th intake.

In his address to the recruits, Rear Admiral Janaka Nissanka congratulated the recruits on their successful completion of training. Further, he emphasized the importance of professionalism in the performance of their entrusted duties. He also encouraged them to take pride in their service and to always be mindful of their responsibility to the nation-building efforts. Additionally, Commander North Central Naval Area reminded the recruits of the age-old traditions and values of the Sri Lanka Navy, including discipline and respect for authority.

Whilst highlighting the significant responsibility that lies on the Sri Lanka Navy to protect the vast ocean space surrounding the island, he emphasized the crucial role that the Navy plays in safeguarding the country's maritime interests and responding to maritime emergencies around the clock. The Chief Guest also acknowledged the importance of the training that the new recruits had undergone, stating that it would be useful in the performance of their duties in the Navy. Finally, he also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the parents of the new recruits, for giving their consent for their children to join the Navy.

The dignified ceremony also saw the passing out of 02 Petty Officers and 03 Women Able Seamen recruited as Artificers under Direct Entry Scheme, after successful completion of their training at SLNS Thakshila. Newly passed out recruits added to the splendour of the dignified ceremony through their drill display, while the Navy Band and Cultural Troupe provided dazzling performances, making the event even more appealing.

Venerable Maha Sangha, senior officers from the Navy Headquarters and North Central Naval Command, officers and sailors of SLNS Shiksha as well as parents of newly passed out naval personnel were present on this occasion.