PASSING OUT PARADE OF THE SRI LANKA AIR FORCE HELD WITH GRANDEUR

The first ever night Passing Out Parade of the Sri Lanka Air Force, a hallmark event in the Sir Lanka Air Force calendar, was held yesterday (29 February) with unparalleled grandeur and pride at the Air Force Academy, China Bay.

The prestigious academy witnessed the passing out of a total of 58 Officer Cadets belonging to Intakes 65, 66, KDU Intakes 36, 37, 38, and Lady Officer Cadet Intakes 17 and 18 marking yet another milestone in the illustrious history of the Sri Lanka Air Force. The occasion was graced by the esteemed presence of His Excellency the President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who honoured the event as the Chief Guest.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil attended this significant occasion at the invitation extended by the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa RSP and two Bars, VSV, USP, MSc (MOA) USA, MSc (Def Stu) in Mgt, MA in IS&S (UK), BSc (Def Stu), MIM (SL), AMIE (SL), rcds, psc where he received a warm reception to the milestone event.

During the ceremony, in accordance with the traditions respected by the military, His Excellency the President awarded swords to the newly commissioning Officer Cadets where the senior most serving officer in the Sri Lanka military, General Shavendra Silva also presented swords to newly commissioning officer cadets. Similarly, National Security Advisor Mr Sagala Ratnayaka, State Minister of Defence Honourable Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, and the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence General GDH Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) WWV RWP RSP USP ndc psc MPhil presented swords symbolizing the esteemed Presidential Commission.

Addressing the newly commissioned Officers of the Sri Lanka Air Force, the President congratulated them and emphasised the responsibilities entrusted upon them for the betterment of the organisation and the nation at large. General Shavendra Silva, acknowledging the dedication and hard work of the newly commissioned officers, commended the Commandant and staff of the Academy for their unwavering commitment to excellence.

The night passing out was also coloured with a band, parachute, and cultural display that attracted the invitees and participants. The Passing Out Night Parade not only symbolizes the culmination of rigorous training but also marks the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of these officers as they step into their roles with a sense of duty, honor, and dedication to serving their nation.

The parade also saw the distinguished participation of Hon. Senthil Thondaman the Governor of Eastern Province, Senior Military Officers, distinguished guests and family members of the newly commissioned officers.

Following the commissioning parade, a Social event including dinner took place at the Air Force Hanger that was also graced by His Excellency the President Ranil Wickremesinghe as the Chief Guest.

The night was further enriched by a vibrant display of drills, an engaging Angampora performance, and cultural showcases presented by dedicated members of the Air Force, adding an extra layer of significance to the proceedings. The commissioning proceedings culminated with dinner served.