Trincomalee: Thirty-six naval personnel have successfully completed an eight-month Basic Marine Qualification Course, receiving their Marine insignia at the main parade ground of SLNS Vidura in Sampur, Trincomalee.

According to News.LK, the ceremony was held under the auspices of Rear Admiral Buddhika Liyanagamage, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Navy and Commander Eastern Naval Area, at the invitation of Captain Ravindu Harischandra, Commandant of SLNS Vidura. The group, composed of 3 officers and 33 sailors, represented the 10th intake of the rigorous program, which they joined on a voluntary basis.

Awards were conferred to recognize exceptional performance during the training. Lieutenant (S) VPA Sasanka received multiple accolades, including Best Marine of the Course, Highest Aggregate in Overall Subjects, and Best Marksman. Physical Training Instructor WMGDP Bandara was honored with the trophy for Best Physical Fitness.

In his address to the newly qualified marines, Rear Admiral Liyanagamage congratulated them for their achievement, emphasizing the importance of their skills in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He encouraged them to apply the courage and determination developed during the course in both their professional duties and personal lives, while remaining vigilant and continually updating their knowledge and training.

The ceremony also featured a demonstration of the capabilities of the Sri Lanka Navy Marine. It was attended by high-ranking officials, including Rear Admiral Achala Silva, Director General Logistics; Rear Admiral Kusal Dissanayake, Commandant Naval Infantry; and Commodore Sanjeewa Kodikara, Director Marine. Officers from Navy Headquarters and the Eastern Naval Area, senior officers from the Army, Air Force, and Police, as well as the families of the newly graduated personnel, were also present.