SLN promotes 2,138 for 74th Anniversary

The Sri Lanka Navy, renowned for its history as the nation’s maritime defence force, celebrated its 74th Anniversary yesterday with a series of events and also the promotions of 2,138 senior and junior sailors to coincide with the event.

Under the leadership of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, a series of programmes were conducted across all Naval Commands, highlighting the Navy’s enduring traditions and religious practices as part of the anniversary festivities.

The advancements in ranks of sailors include 158 to Ordinary Seaman, 279 to Able Seaman, 406 to Leading Seaman, 391 to Petty Officer, 539 to Chief Petty Officer, 354 to Fleet Chief Petty Officer, and 11 to Master Chief Petty Officer.

For the Sri Lankan Navy, the journey began in Ceylon with the Naval Volunteer Force Ordinance No. 01 of 1937, leading to the establishment of the Ceylon Volunteer Naval Force in 1939. In the 1950s, the Navy embarked on a new chapter by establishing a Regular Naval Force, culminating in the formation of the Royal Ceylon Navy through the Navy Act No. 34 of 1950, effective from December 09, 1950. With the country’s transition to a republic in 1972, the Royal Ceylon Navy became the Sri Lanka Navy, continuously expanding its capabilities and securing the nation’s maritime boundaries.

In the early 1980s, as terrorist activities began to emerge, the Sri Lanka Navy transitioned from a ceremonial role to a key military force. Over the years, the Navy has significantly bolstered its personnel and naval capabilities, affirming its dedication to eliminating terrorism within the country. During the pivotal humanitarian operation that concluded nearly three decades of terrorism, the Sri Lanka Navy played a commendable role as the First Line of Defence. Currently, as the Nation’s sole sea-going force, the Navy is committed to ensuring a stable ocean region by combating drug trafficking, addressing non traditional maritime challenges, and curbing various illegal activities originating from sea routes.

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