September 15, Colombo (LNW): Four officers and twenty-eight sailors who successfully completed the 28th Rapid Action Boat Squadron (RABS) Qualifying Course were awarded their insignia at a ceremony on 14th September 2024.
The event took place at the RABS Headquarters in Gagewadiya, Puttalam, with Director General Operations, Rear Admiral Nishantha Peiris, serving as the Chief Guest.
Over seven months of rigorous training, the participants refined their skills in small boat operations, lifesaving, and rescue missions, with a focus on responding to disaster scenarios.
Their training encompassed both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice, ensuring they are fully prepared for a wide range of maritime challenges.
In recognition of their exceptional performance, several trainees received special awards. Sub Lieutenant GLS Jayaruwan was honoured with both the Best Trainee and Best Lifesaver awards, demonstrating outstanding proficiency throughout the course.
Able Seaman JMPGPD Jayasekara also stood out, earning accolades for Best Boat Handler and Best Physical Fitness. Rear Admiral Peiris, representing the Commander of the Navy, presented these awards.
In his address to the newly qualified personnel, Rear Admiral Peiris congratulated them on their accomplishments and emphasised the crucial role of RABS, even during peacetime.
He highlighted the squadron’s responsibility in safeguarding coastal territories and combating nontraditional maritime threats, including human smuggling and drug trafficking.
Additionally, he underscored RABS’s readiness to act as a vital lifesaving force during natural disasters, such as floods and landslides, showcasing their importance in both national security and humanitarian assistance.
The ceremony concluded with a display of the skills acquired during their training. The newly qualified sailors demonstrated their battle drills and lifesaving techniques, underscoring the squadron’s capabilities in handling complex maritime scenarios.
The Sri Lanka Air Force also contributed to the demonstration with a Bell 212 helicopter, enhancing the display of coordinated maritime operations.
RABS, established in 2007 under the motto “Victory Beyond Infinity,” has a storied history, having played a crucial role in the Humanitarian Operation that helped bring an end to decades of conflict.
The squadron was instrumental in neutralising the Sea Tiger threat and ensuring secure navigation in the northern and eastern seas of Sri Lanka.
Today, RABS continues to address emerging maritime challenges, actively working to prevent illegal activities within Sri Lankan waters and standing ready to support disaster relief efforts in collaboration with the Disaster Management Centre.
The ceremony was attended by the Commanding Officer of RABS, Captain Nadun Ranaweera, officers from Navy Headquarters and Northwestern Naval Command, as well as the proud families of the graduating trainees, marking a significant milestone in the careers of these naval personnel.
