14th January 2024 11:24:59 Hours
The Passing-out Parade of Commando Course 51 E, F & G got underway at Commando Regiment Training School (CRTS) Kudaoya on Saturday (13). Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, Commander of the Army graced the occasion as the Chief Guest at the invitation of the Colonel of the Regiment, Commando Regiment, Major General P.G.P.S Rathnayaka RWP RSP ndc.
The dignified ceremony celebrated the graduation of 3 Officers and 162 Soldiers from the batches of 51 E, F, and G of the Commando Regiment.
The ceremony commenced with the arrival of the Chief Guest, whom was warmly received by Colonel of the Regiment and Senior Officers. The Parade Commander then invited the Chief Guest to review the parade and receive the salute during the Passing-out Parade. Following the parade, parents pinned Commando insignia on the passing out Officers and Soldiers, and the Commander of the Army, along with Colonel of the Regiment and a few other Senior Officers, bestowed the prestigious Maroon Beret upon them.
The event also featured the presentation of trophies and certificates to the newly passed out Commandos who excelled in Commando training course. The Commander of the Army congratulated and extended best wishes to the newly joined Commandos during his address.
After the formal proceedings, the gathering moved to the Drop Zone area for simulated demonstrations, including Sniper shots, Commando Confidence Live Firing, Commando Real Fighting System Display, Hostage Rescue Operations, Counter-Terrorism Demonstrations, K9 (War Dogs)-Handling Displays, and Free-fall Parachute Displays. These displays captivated the audience with awe, thrill, and excitement.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Commander of the Army engaged in a conversation with foreign officers who had undergone the parachute course.
Colonel of the Regiment, Commando Regiment then invited the Commander of the Army to ceremonially begin the construction project of the proposed Lido Jump site area by participating in the groundbreaking ceremony.
Afterwards, Colonel of the Regiment presented special mementoes to the Commander of the Army, and the gesture was reciprocated with gratitude. Before departing, the Commander of the Army made a complimentary note in the visitors' book at CRTS.
The recipients of the following awards were specially commended for their extraordinary performances exhibited during the training period at the CRTS:
Best Commando - Lieutenant S.M.L.D Karunarathne
Best in Physical - Private I.P.M.D Ilandhara
Best Shooter - Private R.K.S.T Lakshan
