Twenty-three Midshipmen belonging to Technical branches of 35th and 36th intakes of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University embark on their naval careers as commissioned officers

The commissioning ceremony and passing out parade of twenty-three (23) Midshipmen belonging to Technical branches of the 35th and 36th intakes of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University were held at the main parade ground of Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA), Trincomalee on 30th June 2023. At the invitation of Commandant NMA Commodore Buddhika Liyanagamage, the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera graced this dignified ceremony as the Chief Guest and took the salute.

Midshipman SH Madanayake who was adjudged the Best Technical Midshipman, for his excellent performances during the training period, received his award from the Commander of the Navy.

Addressing the august gathering, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera said that he was privileged to grace the occasion as the Chief Guest and congratulated the newly passed out officers. Adding further, he urged young officers who stepped into an exercising career to uphold core values of the Sri Lanka Navy - Honour, Honesty, Integrity, Loyalty and Courage and underlined the importance of protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the motherland. The Navy Chief stressed that officers would face various challenges in their roles and must be prepared to make difficult decisions to lead their team effectively. Officers need to guide their team towards the desired objective and be ready to provide proper guidance when needed, he further opined.

Furthermore, the Navy Commander emphasized the enduring commitment of service personnel to prioritize the nation's interests above their own, emphasizing that personal matters should always come second. Additionally, he provided valuable guidance to young officers on developing leadership skills and cultivating strong character. Also, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance amidst the fast-changing global circumstances. In this backdrop, he underscored that parents and loved ones need to understand the unique and demanding responsibilities entrusted to young officers and He never forgot to express his profound gratitude to the parents of newly commissioned officers for giving their consent to these officers to pursue a prestigious career. He also commended the Commander Eastern Naval Area and Commandant Volunteer Naval Force, Rear Admiral Dammika Kumara for his cooperation as well as Commandant and Directing Staff of the Naval and Maritime Academy for undertaking a tremendous job in moulding these young officers.

The glittering spectacle concluded with a spectacular cultural performance presented by the Navy Cultural Troupe and a Band Display followed by a ceremonial sunset held in accordance with time-honoured naval customs.

The President of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Mala Lamahewa, executive committee members of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Chief of Staff of the Navy, Rear Admiral Jayantha Kularatne, Commander Eastern Naval Area and Commanders from other Naval Commands, Director Generals, flag-ranking officers, diplomatic corps, officers from Navy Headquarters and Eastern Naval Command, senior officers from SL Army and Air force and, parents of newly commissioned officers were present on this occasion.