President Anura Kumara Dissanayake attended the awarding of the President’s Colours and the commissioning of cadet officers of the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) at the Air Force Academy in China Bay this morning (18).
The President’s Colours were awarded to the No. 03 Maritime Squadron under the theme “Safeguard the Lankan Skies,” recognizing its outstanding service, operational excellence and unwavering dedication to the defence of the nation’s skies and maritime borders.
Officer cadets from the 66th, 67th and 68th Officer Cadet Courses, along with the 20th Lady Officer Cadet Course, were commissioned into active service. Cadets from the 103rd Flying Course also received their flying badges. The President presented special awards to cadet officers and lady officers who demonstrated exceptional performance during their training.
Addressing the ceremony, President Dissanayake emphasized that a nation requires a professional, disciplined and accountable public service across all sectors, noting that the Sri Lanka Air Force has consistently upheld these standards. He said the Air Force stands as a model of integrity and competence for the entire public service.
The President commended the SLAF’s vital role in maritime surveillance, preventing drug trafficking and other illegal activities, and providing assistance during national emergencies. Referring to recent operations, he praised the Air Force for its timely response during the tragedy in Ella and for its continued contribution to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty.
He further stressed the importance of protecting the nation’s maritime borders, which have become key entry points for illegal migration, smuggling and the trafficking of narcotics and arms. The President urged the newly commissioned officers to uphold the Air Force’s honour and professionalism, reminding them that their conduct reflects the integrity of the entire institution.
Concluding his remarks, President Dissanayake expressed confidence that the new officers would serve with dedication, protect the nation’s skies and uphold the trust placed in them by the people and the state.
The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retired), Secretary of Defence Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retired), Marshal of the Air Force Roshan Gunatilaka, Commander of the Air Force Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, senior officers, and families of the newly commissioned cadets.
