Commander of the Navy embarks on official visit to North Central Naval Command

Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera embarked on an official visit to the North Central Naval Command on 11th May 2023. During this visit, he focused on the command's operational, training, and welfare concerns and also addressed a cross section of officers and sailors attached to the command, on Navy's intentions, preparedness for operations, and as how to prudently overcome challenges in career.

Upon his arrival, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera was received at SLNS Pandukabhaya by Commander North Central Naval Area, Rear Admiral Janaka Nissanka. Subsequently, Commander of the Navy addressed a group of naval officers at SLNS Pandukabhaya. In the same vein, he took to the stage at SLNS Shiksha and made an inspiring address to an audience of sailors.

In his addresses to the officers and sailors, Commander of the Navy underlined the responsibility on the shoulders of the Navy and Coast Guard in nurturing a stable ocean region for the realization of the national aspiration of carrying out economic activities safely via sea. Therefore, he said that the Navy anticipated the officers and sailors would be fully dedicated to carrying out their duties with utmost vigor and responsibility.

Adding further, Commander of the Navy expressed that, it is crucial to retain sufficient naval personnel to be prepared for combating illegal activities, including non-traditional maritime challenges at sea, and to confront any other difficulties faced by the country. As things are slowly but surely returning to a state of normalcy, he encouraged the naval personnel to continue their dedication to their duties and to not be swayed by any other ulterior motives.

In addition, the Navy Chief emphasized the importance of leadership, stressing that every member of the Navy must embody this value and also urged naval personnel to do away with any illegal acts that may tarnish the Navy's reputation. Another key point that the Commander of the Navy emphasized was the unique divisional system that is a hallmark of the Navy. He also went on to mention about the wide array of welfare projects put in place by the Navy Welfare Directorate and Seva Vanitha Unit to provide support and assistance to naval personnel and their families. Finally, he emphasized that the current economic climate requires everyone to be mindful of their spending and to prioritize their needs over wants.

During this visit, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera also visited the training simulator at the Naval Infantry School in SLNS Shiksha. In addition, he paid a visit to the welfare outlet at SLNS Pandukabhaya as well as welfare facilities of recruits at SLNS Shiksha and gave necessary instruction to improve those facilities.