Naval Fleet Command conducts Experience Sharing Forum

In a bid to enhance collaboration and knowledge sharing among naval personnel, an Experience Sharing Forum organised by the Naval Fleet Command was held at SLNS Rangalla on 08th June 2023. The event was graced by the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, as the Chief Guest.

The purpose of the forum was to facilitate the exchange of practical knowledge and experiences of former Commanding Officers (COs) with current COs and officers designated for future commands.

The Commander of the Navy expressed approval and support for the effective organization of the Experience Sharing Forum where the Naval Fleet Command has brought key incidents of Maritime Interdiction Operations for discussion. During this session Commodore Anil Bowaththa, Commodore Jayantha Bandara, Commodore Buddika Liyanagamage and Captain Buddika Jayaweera engaged in productive discussions and exchanged valuable insights.

Moreover, there was an expert panel consisting Director Naval Intelligence, Assistant Provost Marshal (North) and Staff Officer Legal Services (West) that contributed with their opinion on subject matters of the discussion. In addition, there were two speeches presented by a resource person from the Police Narcotic Bureau and the Judge Advocate and Principle Legal Adviser of the Navy.

Addressing the Experience Sharing Forum, the Commander of the Navy emphasized the immense importance of sharing experiences, allowing the present generation to gain invaluable insights into how their predecessors dealt with challenging situations. He acknowledged the wealth of knowledge possessed by war veterans, highlighting its potential to greatly benefit young officers in their duties. Underscoring the pivotal role played by the armed forces of Sri Lanka, the Commander put emphasis on their unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism from the motherland once and for all, to bring sustainable peace to all Sri Lankans.

He spoke passionately about the Navy’s high-sea operations which are being carried out even amidst difficult times. Furthermore, the Commander placed special emphasis on the Navy’s vital contributions to high-sea anti-drug operations, navigating through numerous challenges with unwavering determination. By actively combating drug trafficking, the Navy plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s shores, he further opined.

Drawing from recent experiences during visits to foreign countries, he proudly proclaimed that Sri Lanka has earned international acclaim for its vital contribution as a country in the Indian Ocean. Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera also recounted the heroic diving operation of a group of Navy divers at the overturned Chinese vessel, for which the Navy won high praise from international community.

The proceedings of the forum was conducted by Commodore Sea Training, Commodore Nimal Ranasinghe. Deputy Chief of Staff of the Navy and Director General Operations, Rear Admiral Pradeep Rathnayake, Flag Officer Commanding Naval Fleet, Rear Admiral Nishantha Amarosa, flag ranking officers as well as senior and junior officers from the Navy Headquarters, Western Naval Command and Naval Fleet Command were present on this occasion.