Commander of the Navy awards letters of appointment to Direct Entry Officers and 66th Intake of Officer Cadets, including historic first batch of Lady Cadets

In a momentous ceremony held at the Navy Headquarters today (10th January 2023), the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera awarded letters of appointment to the 66th Intake of Officer Cadets and Direct Entry Officers. The event marked a significant milestone as the 33 number of Officer Cadets included the inaugural group of 06 Lady Officer Cadets. In addition, 24 Direct Entry Officers also received their letters of appointment.

These 33 newly enrolled Officer Cadets belong to the Executive (16), Engineering (04), Supply (05), Electrical and Electronic (01) and Naval Infantry (07) branches of the Regular Naval Force.

The ceremony was a testament to the Navy's commitment to diversity and inclusion, as 03 Lady Officer Cadets joined the Executive branch of the Sri Lanka Navy for the first time in its history. In addition, the Engineering (01) and Supply (02) benches also welcomed Lady Officer Cadets for the first time. The Officer Cadets of the 66th Intake will be posted to the Naval and Maritime Academy, Trincomalee for their basic training, effective from today.

Meanwhile, amongst the Direct Entry Officers enrolled for the Regular Naval Force were 01 officer for the Information Technology branch, 01 officer for the Legal Services branch, and 02 officers for Music branch. In addition, 20 officers were also enrolled for the Executive branch in the Volunteer Naval Force.

Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, addressing the gathering, extended his congratulations to the new batch of Officer Cadets and Direct Entry Officers who joined the Navy for a patriotic service to the country. He also added that the inclusion of Lady Officer Cadet through an intake of Officer Cadets marked a significant and historic milestone for the Sri Lanka Navy. Also, Commander of the Navy reminded that the Navy had assigned the first batch of Lady Officers and Woman Sailors for duties onboard ships last year. Furthermore, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera mentioned that Lady Officer Cadets from the 66th Intake will have the opportunity to take on demanding responsibilities as Commanding Officers /Officers in Charge onboard SLN ships and craft in the future.

He expressed that by acquiring knowledge and skills through both theoretical and practical training at the Naval and Maritime Academy - Trincomalee, individuals would cultivate the necessary traits of personality, leadership, and decision-making. The Navy Chief also emphasized that following basic training, Officer Cadets would get the chance to shape their careers, exposing themselves to unique training opportunities both home and away. Here, he also reminded the praiseworthy role played by the Sri Lanka Navy, in its effort to thwart smuggling of drugs and a wide assortment of illegal activities, extending naval operations beyond island waters. In concluding, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera express his gratitude to the proud parents of the young blooded officers, for giving their consent to their sons and daughters to pursue a noble career.

Director General Training Rear Admiral Rohitha Abeysinghe, Director General Personnel Rear Admiral Damian Fernando, senior officers from the Navy Headquarters and the parents of newly enlisted officers were also present on this occasion.