38^th Intake KDU and 64^th Intake Cadet Entry Commissioning Ceremony Culminates at Naval and Maritime Academy

The Commissioning Parade, held on 28^th January 2024, at the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA), Trincomalee, showcased the graduation of 49 officer under trainees. Among them were 21 Midshipmen from the 38^th Intake of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, including two female officers, and 28 Midshipmen from the 64^th Intake Cadet Entry of the Sri Lanka Navy. The event, graced by Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena, the Prime Minister of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, as the Chief Guest took the salute of the parade.

At the awarding ceremony for outstanding achievements, Midshipman MGG Deminda from the 38^th Intake of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University secured awards for the best Midshipman, Highest Aggregate in Professional Subjects, and Highest Aggregate in Overall Subjects. Midshipman KLDS Tanya earned recognition for the Best Sports Performances, while Midshipman DMPS Dassanayake was honoured with the award for the Best Marksman.

In the 64^th Cadet Entry Intake, Midshipman HRL Perera claimed the prestigious Sword of Honour as the Best Midshipman, along with the award for the Best Sportsman. Notably, Midshipman DUM Serasinghe achieved a remarkable feat by winning all three awards for the Highest Aggregate in Nautical Subjects, Professional Subjects, and Overall Subjects. Simultaneously, Midshipman MUS Kumara secured the Best Marksman award.

The Prime Minister, congratulating to the newly commissioned officers, emphasized the importance of their training in instilling navy’s values and professionalism. Highlighting the navy’s role as the first line of defence, he urged them to uphold discipline and contribute in making Sri Lanka Navy a competent institution. Further, emphasizing the responsibility to safeguard unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty, he commended the navy’s efforts in protecting territorial waters, addressing natural disasters, and preventing harmful infiltrations. The Prime Minister also praised the Naval and Maritime Academy and KDU for their dedicated role in imparting knowledge and honing skills.

Among the invitees attended to witness the event, were the Governor of the Eastern Province, a Member of Parliament, , the Chief Secretary-East, District Secretary, the Chief of the Defence Staff, the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy,  Flag Rank Officers, Diplomatic Corps, officers from Navy Headquarters and Eastern Naval Command, along with Senior Officers and under trainees from sister services. Furthermore, the gathering included parents and relatives of the newly commissioned officers, making it a distinguished and diverse audience.

The Commissioning parade came to a close with a captivating cultural display by the Navy Cultural Troupe and a band display, followed by a ceremonial sunset steeped in naval customs and traditions. The Prime Minister of The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka expressed his sincere gratitude for being invited to this vibrant and splendid evening. He extended his appreciation to the Commander-in-Chief and the President of Sri Lanka, and the Commander of the Navy for the invitation. Additionally, he acknowledged the efforts of the Commandant, Naval and Maritime Academy, and the members of the faculty for organizing such a visually stunning event at its grandest scale and honored to be invited as the Chief Guest.