Six months of grit and skill: RABS Course-29 concludes with insignia pinning by Navy Commander

A ceremonial insignia pinning was held on 06 Sep 25 at the Rapid Action Boat Squadron (RABS) Headquarters in Gangewadiya, Puttalam, to recognize 3 officers and 34 sailors upon their successful completion of the six-month RABS Qualifying Course-29. At the invitation of the Commanding Officer RABS, Captain Sudesh Chinthaka and Commander Northwestern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Varuna Ferdinandusz, the ceremony was presided over by the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda.

The training programme encompassed both practical and theoretical aspects of small boat operations, lifesaving and rescue drills during emergencies and natural disasters, as well as safeguarding lives, property and providing humanitarian assistance.

At the ceremony, the Navy Commander presented awards to top performers: Lieutenant AJMDP Abeykoon (Best Lifesaver), Lieutenant TPGTA Gunasekara (Best Boat Handler), Able Seaman PGD Sampath (Best Trainee) and Ordinary Seaman SJMSD Samarakoon (Best Physically Fit Trainee).

Marking the occasion, course participants showcased their training through a demonstration exercise that included small craft offensive manoeuvres against simulated enemy targets and disaster relief drills, conducted in collaboration with a Sri Lanka Air Force Bell 212 helicopter.

Addressing the newly qualified RABS personnel, the Commander of the Navy, congratulated the naval personnel who successfully completed their training, praising their determination and commitment. He noted that RABS carries the proud legacy of valiant naval personnel who defended the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and their sacrifices are remembered with the highest respect.

He also expressed gratitude to the parents of the newly trained personnel for raising sons of courage, and commended the Commanding Officer of RABS and the Training Team for their dedication in providing exceptional training.

Vice Admiral Banagoda also stressed the importance of the continued commitment of these personnel to build upon the professional knowledge and skills gained during training. He underlined that their future service must contribute to the Navy’s mission of safeguarding national security and upholding a secure maritime domain, while also supporting the government's vision of A Thriving Nation and A Beautiful Life for all citizens.

The Navy Commander also acknowledged the families of the course participants, noting that their encouragement and support remain vital as these naval personnel progress in their careers.

The event was distinguished by the presence of the President of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs. Anusha Banagoda, Rear Admiral Rohan Amarasinghe (Retd), the pioneer behind the establishment of RABS, Director General Training Rear Admiral Dammika Wijewardana, senior and junior officers from the Northwestern Naval Command and Navy Headquarters, as well as family members of the course participants.