A batch of 157 Commandos of the Army, specialised in amphibious landings, parachuting or abseiling and taking out unconventional high-value targets, received their prestigious insignia as ‘maroon berets’ at Uva-Kudaoya Commando Regiment Training School (CRTS) premises on Saturday (19). Their ceremonial passing-out parade (PoP), was attended by General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army.

Thirteen officers and 144 soldiers of 48 D & E 2022 batches of the Commando Regiment, after their training that spanned 18 months, showcased their capabilities and operational techniques in the presence of Senior Officers, parents and well-wishers

The day’s Chief Guest General Shavendra Silva, on arrival at the location, was received by Major General Krishantha Gnanaratne, Colonel of the Regiment, Commando Regiment in the company of Brigadier Vijitha Hettiarachchi, Commander, Commando Brigade, Colonel Kamal Dharmawardena, Center Commandant of Commando Regiment HQ and Colonel Janaka Samarasekara, Commandant of the CRTS.

The ‘Maroon Berets’ were awarded by General Shavendra Silva, together with Major General Krishantha Gnanaratne, Colonel of the Regiment, Commando Regiment and Major General Anil Samarasiri, General Officer Commanding 65 Division

The presentation of appreciative trophies and certificates to graduates who did exceptionally well and excelled during the 18-month-long Commando training course was also held. Accordingly, the Award for the Best Commando and the Best Shooter of the Course was presented to Lieutenant T. M. C. M. B Thennakoon who did extremely well while the Best Physical Award was awarded to Second Lieutenant C. L Jayathunga amidst roars of applause.

Family members pinning the insignia

General Silva said that the Commandos were among the most admired and highly respected in the nation.

“It is not an easy task to be a Commando for it needs sustained courage and enthusiasm. I myself being a former Colonel of the Regiment of Commando Regiment, Commando Brigade Commander and the General Officer Commanding 58 Division during Wanni Humanitarian Operations experienced the uniqueness of the Commandos and how much they were dedicated to the cause. Remember you are just entering the start of a new journey after comprehensive training by further enhancing your skills, despite challenges, “he commented.

The commandoes staged sniper demonstrations, fighting techniques, VIP protection displays, hostage rescue and counter-terrorism demonstration, firing demonstration, Man vs. Man Shooting demonstration, K9 (War Dogs)-handling display and Free-fall Parachute Display.

Invitees, Veterans, Senior Officers including Major General Vikum Liyanage, Chief of Staff, Major General Jagath Kodithuwakku, Deputy Chief of Staff, Major General Channa Weerasooriya, Commandant Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force, Officers and a gathering of ORs were present at the day’s Passing out Parade.