In a colourful night Passing Out Parade held at the Main Parade Ground of Naval and Maritime Academy, Trincomalee on 22 July 2022, thirty six (36) Midshipmen of 35th KDU (Technical) and 36th KDU Intakes received commissioning swords form, the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) who review the parade with smart turn-out and synchronized drills as the Chief Guest.
The Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenna grace the event as the guest of honour while Director Generals of Naval Headquarters and senior military officers from Sri Lanka Army, Air Force and Police joined to witness the glamorous event . Defence Attaches and officials from foreign missions in Sri Lanka, Australia, Bangladesh, India, Iran and USA, also were in attendance to witness this unique night passing out parades held in the Sri Lanka Navy with a ceremonial sunset. Clergy and Parents invoke blessings as they marched pass the Saluting Dias to the traditional music of ‘Auld Lang Syne.
Midshipman HASV Hapuarachchi of the 35th Intake KDU won the best Technical Officer award while Midshipman IS Weerasinghe won the Sword of Honour, having been adjudicated as the Best Midshipman of the 36th Intake KDU. Further, he secured the Best Sportsman award. Meanwhile, Midshipman SN Abeywarna secured the Highest Aggregate in Professional Subjects and Highest Aggregate in Overall Subjects. In addition, Midshipman RPPS Rajapaksha was declared to be the Best Marksman.
Addressing the congregation, the Secretary of Defence, reminded the young blood that the armed forces possess, are entrusted with the duty of safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation and expressed that the officers should take pride and be pleased to have joined the Sri Lanka Navy to serve the motherland with a noble resolve. He highlighted the importance of training for performances and to shoulder the responsibilities as the future leaders of the Navy.
The Display and performances by the Sri Lanka Navy Band and the cultural troupe added more colours to the glamorous Passing Out Parade held under the lights and light drizzle. Thirty six Officers including two lady officers marched off with pride and honour to join the victorious SLN fraternity.
