The ceremony, conducted in line with longstanding naval traditions, was honoured by the presence of Rear Admiral Nishantha Peiris, Director General Operations, as the Chief Guest, upon the invitation of Captain Ranga De Zoysa, Commandant of SLNS Shiksha. The Chief Guest presented awards to recruits who excelled during their basic training, recognizing their exceptional performances.
Accordingly, Recruit GVDH Wijerathna was named Best Recruit of the 255th intake, while Recruit PHMDN Wijerathna received the award for the Highest Aggregate in all Subjects. The Best Sportsman trophy went to Recruit TSP De Silva, and Woman Recruit KVN Maduhansini earned the Best Sportswoman title. Additionally, Recruit UWGPA Chandrarathna won the award for Best Marksman. The 'Dutugemunu' Division was recognized as the Best Division of the 255th intake.
In his address to newly passed out recruits, the Director General Operations extended his heartfelt congratulations to the recruits on completing their training. He emphasized the importance of a professional Navy, especially following the end of the three-decade-long war, and highlighted the ongoing need for a robust maritime defence. He assured the recruits that they would now be dispersed to perform special duties, with a crucial role in protecting the nation from any future terrorist threats. Furthermore, he encouraged the sailors to be determined in contributing to the country’s development, while maintaining discipline and delivering exemplary service to the motherland.
The Director General Operations also emphasized the pivotal role played by the Sri Lanka Navy in safeguarding the national security of Sri Lanka, an island nation. He highlighted the Navy's responsibilities in ensuring the security of a vast ocean area, protecting vital aquatic resources, including fish stocks, and maintaining the safety of navigation. Furthermore, he stressed the Navy's crucial role in rescuing ships and individuals in distress within Sri Lanka’s designated search and rescue zone. He urged the newly passed out sailors to commit themselves to these duties with dedication and pride, upholding the honour of their family, themselves, and the Navy.
Finally, Rear Admiral Nishantha Peiris, on behalf of the Commander of the Navy, thanked the parents of the newly passed out sailors for entrusting their sons and daughters to the Navy to serve the nation. He expressed his deep appreciation to all naval personnel for their outstanding contributions to the training activities, despite facing numerous challenges. He extended special thanks to the officers, including the Commandant, Training Commander, and Senior and Junior Instructors of SLNS Shiksha, for their exceptional dedication to this effort.
The colourful spectacle also featured a vibrant drill display presented by the newly passed out recruits and entertaining performances of the Navy Band and Cultural Troupe.
The Commander North Central Naval Area, Rear Admiral Jagath Kumara, Deputy Area Commander, Commodore Mangala Mummullage, senior officers from the Navy Headquarters, North Central Naval Command and sister services, officers and sailors of SLNS Shiksha, as well as parents of newly passed out recruits were present on this occasi
