Midshipman TMIV Thennakoon commended for winning Sword of Honour for Best Midshipman in Pakistan

Midshipman TMIV Thennakoon of the Sri Lanka Navy achieved a historic milestone by receiving the prestigious Sword of Honour for Best Midshipman, after successful completion of his training at the Pakistan Naval Academy, Karachi. This remarkable achievement was recognized during the commissioning parade held at the Pakistan Naval Academy on 04th January 2025. Appreciative of his achievement, the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda awarded a Letter of Commendation to Midshipman TMIV Thennakoon at the Navy Headquarters yesterday (06th January). Meanwhile, the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) congratulated Midshipman Thennakoon, for setting such a remarkable standard for officer under trainees across the tri-services and being an inspiring example for the youth.

Midshipman TMIV Thennakoon, a proud product of St. Anne's College, Kurunegala, joined the Sri Lanka Navy on 28th September 2021, as an officer cadet of the 64th intake. During his school years, he has excelled as the games captain, chaired the literary association, and led the school debate team with distinction. On 10th July 2022, he joined the Pakistan Naval Academy for training, where he successfully completed both theoretical and practical components while excelling in cricket and debating teams, showcasing his remarkable talent.

The commissioning parade held at the Pakistan Naval Academy in Karachi featured 48 Pakistan Navy and 02 Sri Lanka Navy Midshipmen. Notably, Midshipman TMIV Thennakoon was awarded the prestigious Sword of Honour for being the Best Midshipman. This achievement marks the first time an officer under trainee from the Sri Lanka Navy has received such a distinguished accolade from the Pakistan Navy.

In addition, during his training, Midshipman TMIV Thennakoon was honoured with the title of Best Friendly Countries’ Cadet, recognition for his exemplary cooperation and camaraderie with foreign cadets. Additionally, he was awarded the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Gold Medal for his exceptional leadership skills and outstanding performance. In appreciation of bringing much credit to the motherland while setting a new benchmark for tri-service officer under trainees, he was heaped with this praise by the Commander of the Navy and the Defence Secretary.