Midshipman TMIV Thennakoon of the Sri Lanka Navy achieved a historic milestone by receiving the prestigious Sword of Honour for Best Midshipman at the Pakistan Naval Academy, marking the first time a Sri Lankan Officer Under Trainee has received this distinguished accolade. The commissioning parade, held on 04th January 2025, included forty eight (48) Pakistan Navy and two (02) Sri Lanka Navy Midshipmen, where Midshipman Thennakoon’s outstanding performance was recognized.
A proud product of St. Anne’s College, Kurunegala, Midshipman Thennakoon joined the Sri Lanka Navy on 28th September 2021 as an Officer Cadet of the 64th Intake. Excelling in academics and leadership, he was the Games Captain, Chairman of the Literary Association, and Captain of the Debate Team during his school years. On 10th July 2022, he commenced his training at the Pakistan Naval Academy, where he showcased exceptional skills in both theoretical and practical components while actively participating in cricket and debating.
In addition to the Sword of Honour, Midshipman Thennakoon was awarded the Best Friendly Countries’ Cadet title for his outstanding cooperation with foreign cadets and the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Gold Medal for his exceptional leadership and remarkable performance.
Recognizing his achievement and to inspire Officer Under Trainees (OUTs), the Naval and Maritime Academy (NMA) organized a special interactive session as directed by the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy. The day’s programme commenced with Morning Divisions at the Parade Ground, followed by a courtesy call on the Commandant, Naval and Maritime Academy Rear Admiral Rohan Joseph. Midshipman Thennakoon then conducted an experience-sharing session at the Admiral Wasantha Karannagoda Auditorium (AWKA), attended by Directing Staff, OUTs, and officers of the 64th Intake. He also toured new academic facilities, including the New OTW Building, Navigation School, Engineering School, and Ships Handling Simulators. The event concluded with an interactive session and dinner at the Senior Cadets’ Dining Hall, where Officer Under Trainees had the opportunity to engage with him.
Midshipman Thennakoon’s success underscores the professional excellence of Sri Lanka Navy officers and his historic achievement serves as an inspiration for aspiring naval personnel, motivating them to pursue their careers with dedication and determination.
