Commander of the Navy Issues Letters of Appointment to Seventy-six (76) Direct Entry Officers and Officer Cadets

In a significant ceremony at Navy Headquarters on yesterday,  the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, awarded appointment letters to 51 Officer Cadets of the 67th Intake, 18 Direct Entry Officers, and 7 Officer Cadets from University Grant Commission scheme.

Of the 51 Officer Cadets in the Regular Naval Force, 22 are designated for the Executive branch, 7 for the Engineering branch, 9 for the Logistics branch, 3 for the Electrical and Electronic branch, 7 for the Infantry branch, and 3 for the Provost branch.

The 2023/2 Direct Entry Intake included a total of 18 officers: 3 from the Executive branch, 4 from the Logistics branch, and 2 from the Information Technology branch, all part of the Regular Naval Force. Additionally, 9 officers were accepted into the Executive branch of the Volunteer Naval Force. Of the 7 Officer Cadets chosen from University Grant Commission scheme, 4 were selected for the Medical branch and 3 for the Engineering branch.

In a motivational speech delivered to the newly enrolled Officer Cadets, the Commander of the Navy emphasized the long journey that lies ahead for them in their naval careers. Reflecting on his own challenging experiences when he joined the Navy, he acknowledged the sacrifices made by previous generations that have paved the way for a safer and more secure path for the new officers. He underscored the critical importance of professionalism throughout their service and urged the cadets to persevere through their training, regardless of its difficulties. Additionally, he encouraged them to aspire to become leaders who will one day guide the Navy, instilling a sense of purpose and responsibility in their roles. He concluded by saying that the parents made a wise choice in allowing their children to join the Navy, which paves the way for their future success. Additionally, the Navy Chief emphasized that by doing so, the parents have also fulfilled an important national duty.

The Chief of Staff of the Navy, Rear Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, Director Generals, senior officers from the Navy Headquarters and Western Naval Command and near and dear ones of the appointment letter recipients were present on this occasion.