Army Chief Inaugurates New Water Confidence Training Zone at CRTS

Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, Commander of the Army, inaugurated the newly constructed Water Confidence Training Zone (WCTZ) on 19 December 2024, marking a significant milestone in the development of the Commando Regiment's training infrastructure at the Commando Training School (CRTS), Kuda Oya. This facility also marks the Army’s modernization efforts as it is a unique and novel addition to the Sri Lanka Army which could rarely be found even in the regional level.

Upon arrival, the Army Chief was warmly welcomed by Major General K.H.M.S Wickramaratne RSP, General Officer Commanding of the 53 Infantry Division and Colonel of the Regiment of the Commando Regiment. Following a ceremonial Guard Turnout by the Commando Regiment troops, the Army Chief unveiled the inauguration plaque, formally opening the training zone.

The WCTZ was established to facilitate the self-confidence test jump, a key challenge in earning the iconic maroon beret of the commandos, thereby significantly enhancing the training infrastructure at CRTS. The facility aims to strengthen the physical and mental resilience of commandos through water-based exercises.

The project, initially proposed by Major General P.G.P.S. Ratnayake (Retd) RWP RSP ndc during his tenure as Colonel of the CR, was implemented under the Commander’s Special Project Scheme. The successful completion of the WCTZ was made possible through the expertise of the Corps of Engineer Services, in collaboration with the CRTS Commandant and All Ranks.

The event featured a demonstration by Commando Regiment troops, showcasing their commitment and proficiency in using the newly established WCTZ, followed by a site inspection. Afterwards, to mark the event, the Colonel of the Regiment of the Commando Regiment presented a special memento to the Commander of the Army and the gesture was reciprocated.

The ceremony concluded with the signing of the visitors' book. Major General W.P.A.D.W. Nanayakkara RSP VSV USP ndu, Chief of Staff and Colonel of the Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment, Principal Staff Officers, Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks participated in the occasion.