21st November 2015 19:12:00 Hours
The Commando parachutist Major M.N.P.S Siranjeewa (48) of 1 Commando Regiment added a new chapter to Sri Lanka’s field of parachuting and made Commandos further recognized when he during a mini-tattoo type display of aerobatics at the Passing Out Parade (PoP) at Kudaoya, Commando Training School on Saturday (21), descended from a height of 4000 ft holding the pet War Dog, Teesha together with him as onlookers burst into a thundering applause which reverberated the CTS premises for several minutes.
The Chief Guest at the PoP (See Photo Story) Eng Karunasena Hettiarachchi, Secretary Defence, together with Lieutenant General Crishanthe De Silva, Commander of the Army was overjoyed at the chilling achievement of the parachutist who was making his final fall on Saturday (21) and expressed his appreciation on the daring act.
The parachutist, Major Siranjeewa during his 20 year long parachute career has participated in many international events, state functions and other ceremonies after this parachute training began in 1995.
Motivated by several of his senior officers, including Brigadier L.W.H Gamage, Centre Commandant, Commando Regiment, the parachutist made up his mind to make this new record since no such sky drop had ever been reported carrying a pet dog.
Sri Lanka Air Force MI-17 Helicopter piloted by Flight Lieutenant Rajive Jayawickrama in a skillful manner manoeuvered the craft and ensured the safe drop for Major Siranjeewa. Major Siranjeewa made the Army proud by participating in many international and national events including ‘Indian World Military Parachute Championship at Hyderabad in 2008 and China Korea Friendship Tournament at Beijing in 2009".
The parachutist who stunned the spectators with his outstanding but the final descent in the presence of a distinguished gathering, expects to display another feat carrying the Army flag, provided the Commander’s consent is granted in the near future before he retires from the career of parachuting.
