Sri Lanka Navy Special Boat Squadron honoured with President’s Colours

Ranil Wickremesinghe the President and Commander – in – Chief of the Armed Forces of Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka awarded President’s Colours to the Sri Lanka Navy Special Boat Squadron (SBS) on Friday (01st March 2024). The momentous ceremony was held at the main parade ground of the Special Boat Squadron Headquarters, Trincomalee, in precision with time-honoured naval tradition. The distinguished honour was bestowed upon the Special Boat Squadron, in recognition of its significant role in the success of humanitarian operation and its members’ ongoing efforts to achieve the country’s maritime aspirations by combating an assortment of illegal activities at sea.

The Special Boat Squadron, demonstrating its commitment to the motto “Fortune Favours the Brave”, has been commanded twice in the past by Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, the current Commander of the Navy. Trained in specialized combat techniques across sea, land, and air, its men possess a noble resolve for the motherland, beyond their call of duty. The Special Boat Squadron was established on 08th November 1993 in Karainagar, Jaffna, meeting the need for a special unit to suppress terrorist activities in the shallow waters around the northern islands and lagoons. Established with 02 officers and 38 sailors, it was led by then Lieutenant Commander Ravindra Wijegunaratne.

In the daring missions undertaken by the SBS to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, forty-two (42) personnel have been disabled, and sixty-two (62) brave men have sacrificed their lives.

The bestowment of the prestigious President’s Colour is testament to the squadron’s unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions in humanitarian operation and relentless efforts to safeguard our seas, battling illicit activities to advance country’s maritime ambitions.